those working abroad the structures. The Coast Guard is authorized 

 to issue and enforce regulations covering these matters (43 USC 

 1333). 



It was recommended that legislation be proposed giving authority 

 to regulate aids to navigation and safety equipment on all such struc- 

 tures, and that the Coast Guard exercise broad control over these and 

 safety of boats supporting the offshore structures. 



MoTOKBOAT Safety 



The Motorboat Act of 1940 (amended in 1950, 46 USC 526), and 

 the Federal Boating Act of 1958 (46 USC 527) are designed primarily 

 to keep the inexperienced or careless pleasure boaters from killing or 

 maiming themselves and others. The phenomenal postwar increase of 

 small boats in U.S. waters (estimated at 6 million in 1961) make these 

 laws as necessary and as hard to enforce as traffic laws ashore. 



The law specifies for each of three classes of boats up to 65 feet long, 

 lights, sound-signal equipment, lifesaving equipment, fire extinguish- 

 ers, ventilation, and the like. Kegistration is required for power boats 

 of more than 10 horsepower, boarding for inspection is authorized, and 

 any boat operator may be required to show identification. 



The Coast Guard Auxiliary was formed in 1941 (14 USC 821). 

 This is an organization of owners of boats, aircraft, or radio stations, 

 which helps the Coast Guard with safety, education, and rescue meas- 

 ures. They do not take part in enforcement duties. As of 1961 they 

 totaled 21,000. Spearheaded by the Coast Guard and the Auxiliary 

 Flotillas, State boating authorities, safety officials, U.S. Power Squad- 

 rons, Ked Cross, and the YMCA are carrying out an extensive pro- 

 gram of education in boating safety. 



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