What is the AuxWLO Program?

The AUXLWO Study Observer Training Program prepares US Coast Guard Auxiliary members and others to conduct boating observations as part of an ongoing research study conducted by JSI Research & Training Institute, Inc. Auxiliarists have been conducting boating observations for this study since 2014. The purpose of the training is to show you how to apply your boating knowledge to our research procedures and protocols to get good, consistent data on life jacket wear rates across the country. Your participation is essential to the success of this important program!

• In each state, observers record boating behavior at 4 bodies of water (sites) for a maximum of 300 boats or at least 4 hours each.
• Data is collected at the same location on each body of water every year.
• Data is collected on summer weekends.
• Data collectors work in teams of 2 (an observer and a recorder.)
• Wear rate data is combined with USCG accident data and reported to congress.

Observer Requirements for Certification

 PQS: 

• Successful completion of a boating safety course for BQ membership status
• Current in all AUXCT requirements
• Review most recent life jacket wear national report 

• Approximately 2 hours to complete online training, available at JSI e-Learning Center.
• 4 hours onsite observation/data collection
• Travel time to and from sites

• Receive training information
• Successful completion of training quiz for clearance to observe
• Maintain an observation schedule
• Receive observation equipment
• Answer questions on team data
• Receive data quality reports
• Receive 98% accuracy scores on two observations for full certification