WILLEMSTAD - The Coast Guard calls on young people to register for the Basic Training Coast Guard (BOK). Both men and women can apply.
Young people with the ambition to become a coastguard can register for a 1-year training program that consists of practical and theoretical modules. In addition, training to become an Extraordinary Police Officer (BAVPOL) is offered.
During the training, the aspirants are taught basic skills, including first aid and marksmanship. The students also receive education in shipping and modules are offered in basic life-saving equipment training, firefighting, legislation and VHF radio manual.
The coastguard says that anyone who wants to register must, among other things, have a Dutch nationality and be registered on Aruba, Curaçao, Sint Maarten or the BES islands. In addition, they must be between 18 and 25 years old and have a swimming diploma, read and write the Dutch language well and be in good shape. Furthermore, they may not wear glasses or contact lenses and they may not have a criminal record.