Channel Islands Harbor to host Safe Boating Expo
April 30, 2015
OXNARD — Boaters are invited to attend the 2015 Channel Islands Safe Boating Expo on Saturday, May 9, where throngs of boating enthusiasts and their families will convene to watch exciting offshore water rescues and learn more about local organizations and safety agencies.
The expo will run from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. at the Coast Guard Station at 4201 S. Victoria Ave. This event is free to the public and is part of National Safe Boating Week.
The 10th annual Channel Islands Safe Boating Expo features on-the-water rescue demonstrations by the Coast Guard and local fire department. As part of the demo, Coast Guard officers will rescue a boater from a boat fire and boaters in the water. The boaters will be taken back to the Coast Guard dock for a demonstration of how to treat hypothermia and how to conduct CPR. Demonstrations are scheduled for 11 a.m. and 2 p.m.
Guests can also enjoy free flare inspections. Used flare disposal will also be available. Visitors can also visit the many commercial and exhibitor booths.
“Local vendors will demonstrate the latest in safety products and hands on training for the proper use of a fire extinguisher, shooting a flare, paddle boarding, kayaking and CPR,” said Henry Goldman member of the U.S. Coast Guard Auxiliary and chairman of the event. “A fashion show featuring the latest styles of life jackets will be demonstrated.”
The Coast Guard Station boats will be open for public tours on the new 45-foot response boat; tours on the 87-foot Coast Guard Cutter and other boats will be offered from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. To reserve your spot for a vessel tour or receive a free safety examination, visit safeboatingexpo.com/tours.html.
Local safety agencies on site include the Red Cross, Coast Guard Auxiliary, Channel Islands Harbor Patrol, Oxnard Police/Fire Dive Team, Channel Islands National Marine Sanctuary and Ventura Sail, Power Squadron and many others.
“Every year we get larger crowds that attend this educational and fun event for the entire family,” Goldman said.
Food and beverages will also be sold by the Pacific Corinthian Youth Foundation with proceeds going to support the youth sailing program in Channel Islands Harbor.
For more information, visit safeboatingexpo.com or email info@safeboatingexpo.com, or call (800)704-5620.
