May 16-20 has been declared as Mercer Island Safe Boating Week.

On average, 700 people die each year in boating related accidents in the U.S., with the vast majority of those accidents caused by human error and poor judgment and not by the boat, equipment, or environmental factors, according to the city’s proclamation.

Washington State experienced 22 boating related fatalities in 2014, an increase from 17 reported in 2013.

The mission of United States Coast Guard Auxiliary, as well as the Mercer Island Police Department’s Marine Patrol unit, is to promote and improve recreational boating safety.

The local United States Coast guard Auxiliary Eastside Flotilla 22, is holding one-day classes on boating rules and safety.

State law requires all persons between the ages of 12 and 60 years of age to have a state Boater Education Card in their possession when operating a boat powered by a 15 hp motor or greater. Vessel operators who are required to have a Boater Education Card must carry the card on board the vessel and have it available for inspection by an enforcement officer. Not carrying a card can result in a fine.

The classes will be held between 8:30 a.m. and 4:30 p.m., on Saturday, May 30 and Saturday, June 27 at Bellevue Fire Station #9 in Newcastle at 12412 Newcastle Way.

The cost is $30 for the class materials and the test. Registrants are asked to register and pay two weeks in advance to receive the book before the class begins.

Those who attend the one day class and pass the examination at the end of the day, will receive a certificate which may be used to apply for a Washington state Boater Education card.

For information and to register, email Terrence Hooper at HoopCGAUX@gmail.com or call 425-885-0259.

For more on state law regarding boating and vessel registration, go to boat.wa.gov/regulations.asp.