The United Safe Boating Institute

Excerpt from U.S. Coast Guard Proceedings of the Marine Safety & Security Council magazine by Captain William Griswold, USCG (Ret.), President, United Safe Boating Institute

The United Safe Boating Institute (USBI) is an alliance of non-profit organizations united to provide a public service through preparation and distribution of focused boating educational information, funded by grants and/or public, private, and corporate contributions.

It was formed in the late 1980s by members of the Coast Guard Auxiliary, U.S. Power Squadrons, the American Red Cross, the U.S. Sailing Association, and the Canadian Power Squadrons. The American Canoe Association also joined the group a few years ago.

Targeted Initiatives
Safety Tips for Anglers, Hunters, and Campers is our most popular pamphlet. This 16-page publication outlines boating safety, first aid, aids to navigation, and navigation rules, with illustrations covering life jacket use, the dangers of alcohol and hypothermia, and equipment you should have on board.

Which Life Jacket for You? is a poster that displays pictures and brief descriptions of popular life jackets appropriate for use in various boating activities.

Five Tons and No Brakes is a short booklet aimed at houseboat operators. Normally, houseboat renters are not experienced boaters, and this sheet serves to acquaint them with issues they might encounter.

For more information:
Website: http://www.usbi.org/.

Full article is available at http://www.uscg.mil/proceedings/fall2010.