U.S. Coast Guard Auxiliary turns 82 while offering Suddenly In Command classes

OXNARD, Calif.-Members of the United States Coast Guard Auxiliary have recreational boating safety on their minds this time of year.

The auxiliary that is celebrating is 82nd year is made up of longtime volunteers.

The auxiliary in the Channel Islands Harbor held a free Suddenly in Command course at the Pacific Corinthian Yacht Club this month.

It is an ideal course for people who are not normally at the helm.

Course instructor Richard Heller said It's important for boaters to know what to do in an emergency.

"You are suddenly in command if your skipper falls overboard, he's injured and can't operate the boat or he's injured and you must make a VHF radio call and have him evacuated off the boat for emergency medical treatment, " said Heller.

Class topics include; how to call the Coast Guard, how to let the Coast Guard know your location in the ocean.

How to protect life and property and the basics of anchoring.

For more information visit http://wow.uscgaux.info