At most marine stores or any USCG station, you can pick up a copy of the Federal Requirements and Safety Tips for Recreational Boats pamphlet
. The USCG's Boating Safety Hotline (800-368-5647) or Web site (www.uscgboating. org) can provide all sorts of boating safety information, including courses in your area, and can link you to the Coast Guard Auxiliary and U.S. Power Squadron, which provides free vessel safety checks.