Athlone Yacht Club's premises in Ballyglass, Coosan, Athlone.

Lough Ree Yacht Club to run crucial course and exam

OVER the weekend (Saturday and Sunday), Lough Ree Yacht Club is running a VHF course and exam  at the club premises in Ballyglass, Coosan, Athlone.

The VHF Short Range Certificate is the minimum qualification required by law to control the operation of VHF and VHF Digital Selective Calling (DSC) on any boat fitted with a marine radio. This includes both fixed and hand held equipment using International channels.

A radio is an important piece of safety equipment on board and it is vital to understand the correct procedures, as unnecessary transmissions could block out a Mayday distress call. Marine Radio Operator Certificates of Competency are currently issued by the Office of the Director of Telecommunications Regulation. Call or text Deirdre O'Regan, 087 2599060, for price, details and booking.