Missouri and Illinois laws require those operating a vessel on Missouri lakes must carry a boating safety identification card issued by the State Water Patrol and a valid photo ID.

This includes personal watercraft like Jet-Skis. The Boating Safety ID Card indicates successful completion of a boating safety education course.

Flotilla 3-13 of the U.S. Coast Guard Auxiliary will offer the "About Boating Safety" course from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. on two consecutive Saturdays at Grafton Harbor this winter and spring.

The class schedule is as follows:

Class 1: Feb. 23 and March 2

Class 2: April 6 and April 13

Class 3: May 4 and May 11

Successful completion of this course will not only earn the Boating Safety ID Card, but will also give you valuable information which will help you to remain safe on the water. Many insurers offer a discount upon completion of the course.

Pre-registration is required. Sign up or for more information by dropping by the harbor, or calling Jan at 618-786-7678 or by contacting Mark at msz@charter.net or 314-803-7044.

To learn more about boater education, Vessel Safety Checks and other services provided by the Coast Guard Auxiliary or if you are interested in joining, visit www.uscgauxflotilla3-13.org online or contact us at msz@charter.net.

The United States Coast Guard Auxiliary is composed of uniformed, non-military volunteer civilians who assist the Coast Guard in its varied missions, except for military and direct law enforcement. These men and women can be found on the nation's waterways, in classrooms and on the dock, performing safety patrols, vessel safety examinations and public education. The 31,000 members of the Coast Guard Auxiliary donate millions of hours annually in support of Coast Guard missions.