Cross the Columbia, Tillamook bars safely

ASTORIA — The Coast Guard Auxiliary is offering a class covering the skills and knowledge necessary for crossing the bar Saturday, May 12, at Englund Marine & Industrial Supply, 95 Hamburg Ave., in their conference room. Attendees can choose the 8:30 to 11:30 a.m. class or the 12:30 to 3:30 p.m. class.

Are you prepared to cross the Columbia Bar, known as the “Graveyard of the Pacific,” this fishing season? Sign up for this class and learn ways to boat more safely when crossing the Columbia and Tillamook bars.

Topics include seaworthy vessels, dangers and dangerous areas, reading NOAA tides and currents, tide table charts and how to use nautical charts, understanding weather service forecasts and bar reports, safety equipment for offshore or potentially rough waters, boating in strong waves and distress calls, equipment and protocols.

Bring your questions and leave more informed! Be safe this summer! The cost is $10 and includes useful websites and phone numbers.

Space is limited. To preregister for the morning or afternoon class, contact Dave Phillips, U.S. Coast Guard Auxiliary, Ilwaco, Wash., at dwphillips67@gmail.com or 503-440-9130.