KYC Education-7 School Program

The Kelowna Yacht Club would like to once again offer a safe boating course as part of the School program. As our Okanagan waters are becoming increasingly crowded it becomes more evident to Okanagan residents that "Drowning is the second leading cause of death for children between the ages of 5 - 14 years, only exceeded by auto accidents". The majority of these deaths occur while enjoying Canada's largest recreational activity, boating. We believe that by delivering the proper training to today's youth we can help prevent these types of accidents.

As of September 15, 2002 the new boating regulations now state "Any persons operating a powerboat under 4 meters (13.2 feet) must have an Operator's Card

(this includes personal water craft). Also, anyone born after April 1, 1983 must have proof of competency and on September 15, 2009 all boaters will need their Operator's Card.

COST: free to all students from ages 6-11 yrs. old
The CYA (Canadian YAchting association) Spark Start Licensing Program to all students ages 12-18, for a fee of $20... per student. The fact that youth are primarily being targeted only gives us more reason to educate them.

For the past several years, the Kelowna Yacht Club has successfully implemented the safe boating programs into local schools. The response has been very positive. It makes good sense that the school system should continue to be an avenue through which to present this topic. I propose that your school, in alliance with the Kelowna Yacht Club continue to train our youth to have a safe summer on the water. A suitable program can be negotiated so that all needs are being met.

If you would like to see this course at your school, please contact the Kelowna Yacht Club so we can train your youth to have a safe summer on the water.

TIME: months of May and June
WHERE: Programs will be available to be taught either at your school or the Kelowna Yacht Club which ever is more convenient.

Please help us ensure that our youth stay safe year round.
Contact Connie Urqhart at the Kelowna Yacht Club at 762-3310
between the hours of 9 to 4 pm Monday to Friday