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Q. Can
sailors become members
A. Of course. More than 40% of
our members are sailors. The term "Power Squadrons" in our name dates to
our founding in 1914 by the power boat division of the Boston Yacht Club.
Following the first World War, our ranks broadened to include all types of
boats, and sailors have been a major part of USPS ever since.
Q. Is USPS a part of or supported by
the U.S. Government
A. No.
While we have many joint programs with the United States Coast Guard, the
CG Auxiliary, and the National Ocean Services division of NOAA, USPS is a
private, totally self-supporting organization.
Q. How does
one become a member of USPS
A.
Active membership in USPS is open to those 18 years and over who are able
and willing to contribute time, energy, and skills to the objectives of
USPS. Check our online membership information or call toll free
1-888-FOR-USPS (1-888-367-8777). For Charleston Power Squadron
information, call 843-556-3258.
Q. What if
you're already a member of the Canadian Power Squadron or the U.S. Coast
Guard Auxiliary
A. If you already belong to
either of these organizations you do not have to pass a USPS course to
become a member because you have already completed a qualifying course.
Q. How do you enroll in a USPS boating course
A.
Every USPS squadron teaches at least one or two such courses every year.
Some squadrons teach many more. Charleston Power Squadron offers our
“Boat Smart” class starting every Tuesday night. The courses are
publicized in local newspapers, on posters, at marinas, and at various
other locations. The easiest way to determine when the next course
will be offered in the Charleston area is to call 843-767-1491 or email
smithbj@sc.rr.com.
Q. What about
the person who cannot take an evening Boating Course
A.
America's Boating Course (ABC) is a joint effort between the United
States Power Squadrons and the US Coast Guard Auxiliary. It is available
as an internet home study course for individuals who cannot attend
traditional class room courses. A CD and a manual are provided as part of
the course_
USPS has a 80-minute video Boating Course
which can be taken at your own leisure. For information see our menu above
or call 1-888-FOR USPS (1-888-367-8777). Call today. Safe Boating is more
fun
Q. What's in
it for you
A. A
great variety of courses to choose from: As a USPS
member, you and your family can enroll in a great variety of advanced
grades and elective courses which are only available to USPS members.
These courses include Seamanship, Piloting, Celestial Navigation, Weather,
Sail, Engine Maintenance, Marine Electronics and Cruise Planning. In
addition, USPS offers more than two dozen self study courses on such
subjects as the Water Sports, Boat Insurance, Oceanography, Introduction
to Sailing, Preparation for Coast Guard Licensing, and much more.
Meeting with other boaters in your area: As
a member of a local squadron (and there are approximately 450 squadrons
throughout the USA, including Alaska, Hawaii, Puerto Rico, and the US
Virgin Islands) you will join with other knowledgeable boaters in your
area who are familiar with the local waters, the best anchorages, and
marinas and boat repair shops.
Participation in a variety of on water
activities: As a USPS member you're automatically invited to join in the
squadron and district cruises, rendezvous, predicted log contests,
raftings and other on-water activities.
Savings on Boat Insurance: There are many
marine insurance companies which provide discounts to those who complete
advanced boating courses. This savings can be significant.
USPS Networking with other members
throughout the USA, Canada and even more distant areas: Thinking of
boating in a river, lake or ocean far from your home? USPS has a Port
Captain program which will provide names and telephone numbers of local
USPS members who know the territory.
Receive the official USPS magazine THE
ENSIGN.
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