FLETC Pilots IBOT Course

The Federal Law Enforcement Training Center (FLETC) will conduct a pilot Inland Boat Operators Training Program (IBOT), this September in Glynco, Ga.

Instructors from FLETC’s Marine Training Branch in cooperation with Federal, State and local agencies developed the IBOT to address the needs of those law enforcement agencies tasked with guarding our Nation’s lakes and inland waterways.  These waterways are a popular draw for nearly 70 million recreational vessels. 

The IBOT program was designed to teach basic skills to those officers with limited vessel handling experience enabling them to safely operate their boat in a law enforcement capacity.  Many of the courses are taught in underway lecture/laboratory setting, which maximizes the time spent on the water. 

The one-week program covers vessel handling, marlinespike seamanship, preventative maintenance, safety and emergency equipment, inland navigation rules, trailering, emergency procedures, and inland piloting.  The course also includes a night piloting exercise, which familiarizes the student with the use of radar and Global Positioning System.  Since so many law enforcement responsibilities are conducted during nighttime hours, it is imperative students be exposed to night-piloting exercises.

“This new program has taken considerable time, effort, and commitment to create,” explained Marine Branch Chief Ringan Doty.  “We believe it presents a curriculum that is relevant, progressive, integrated, and safe for the law enforcement community.  As with any new system, it will take time to validate; however, we will constantly monitor and review its progress.”

Class size is limited to 24 students, and applicants must be either police or peace officers with marine law enforcement duties that do not require offshore operations.  The IBOT program will be offered four times during the 2007 fiscal year; however, agencies may request additional courses as needed.

For more information, contact FLETC’s Driver Marine Division at 912-267-3235.

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