Expo promotes safe boating

Residents are invited to learn about boating safety at the second annual Channel Islands Harbor Safe Boating Expo from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. Sat., May 12 at the U.S. Coast Guard Station, 4201 S. Victoria Ave., Oxnard.

The expo will include air, sea and fire rescue demonstrations at 10 a.m. and noon featuring Ventura County Sheriff's Rescue, Ventura and Channel Islands Harbor Patrol, Ventura County Fire Department, Coast Guard Helicopter and Gold Coast Ambulance.

Other events include safety demonstrations and tours of coast guard vessels including the 87-foot cutter Blacktip from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. A number of agency booths and displays will also be on site, including the national Marine Sanctuary, Red Cross, Power Squadron, Channel Islands Harbor Patrol and Sea Scouts.

Individuals may bring outdated flares for disposal or testing. Free vessel safety examinations, commercial booths and handson exhibits by local dealers will also be provided.

Food and beverages will be available; proceeds will support the Pacific Corinthian Yacht Club Youth Foundation.

For more information, call (800) 704-5620, (805) 382-3007 or (805) 985-4852, or visit channelislandsharbor.org or safeboatingcampaign.net.