OTTAWA - The U.S. Army Corps of Engineers is offering five free Illinois Safe Boating classes this year at the Illinois Waterway Visitor Center located at 950 N. 27th Road, near Utica.

Classes will be offered from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. on Saturdays, April 27, May 18, June 22, July 13, and Aug. 17. Pre-registration is required. Participants need only complete one eight-hour course to receive certification. The class is open to anyone age 11 or older but students under age 16 must be accompanied by an adult.

The class is recommended for all boaters including anyone new to boating, scouts, families that enjoy weekend boating adventures, or seasoned boaters who would just like to brush up on their safe boating knowledge. Upon successful completion of the class and exam, participants 12 and older will be issued an Illinois DNR Boat Safety Certification.

This indoor, classroom-based safety class will include instruction in basic boating safety, equipment and requirements, motorboat registration and titling, navigation, basic maintenance, emergency measures and Illinois and federal boating laws. No on-the-water experience will be provided during the class.

Class materials will be provided but participants should plan to bring their own lunch and drinks.

For more information or to register for a class, contact the Illinois Waterway Visitor Center at (815) 667-4054.