National Safe Boating Week, 2006

Proclamation 8017 of May 12, 2006

National Safe Boating Week, 2006

By the President of the United States of America

A Proclamation

By providing an opportunity to experience our Nation's
scenic waterways, recreational boating is one of our
country's most popular activities. During National Safe
Boating Week, we underscore the importance of taking
safety precautions before going out on the water and
encourage all Americans to make responsible decisions
while boating.

This year marks the 35th anniversary of the enactment
of the Federal Boat Safety Act, which has helped reduce
the number of recreational boating deaths in our
country. Yet despite significant progress, recreational
boating accidents still occur and, tragically, the
majority of them are preventable. Operator inattention
and inexperience, careless and reckless navigation, and
excessive speed are the leading contributing factors of
all reported accidents. An estimated 70 percent of
reported boating fatalities in 2004 occurred on boats
where the operator had not received safety instruction,
and of those victims who drowned, nearly 90 percent
were not wearing life jackets.

America's boat owners and operators play a large role
in helping ensure passenger safety. The United States
Coast Guard initiative ``You're in Command'' serves to
educate boaters about how to enjoy our Nation's waters
safely and responsibly. For more information about
being safe while on the water, boaters can visit
uscgboating.org and safeboatingcampaign.com. By taking
simple precautions such as wearing a life jacket,
taking a boating safety course, getting a Vessel Safety
Check, and never boating under the influence of alcohol
or drugs, we can continue to save lives and reduce the
number of accidents and injuries that occur each year.

In recognition of the importance of safe boating
practices, the Congress, by joint resolution approved
June 4, 1958 (36 U.S.C. 131), as amended, has
authorized and requested the President to proclaim
annually the 7-day period prior to Memorial Day weekend
as ``National Safe Boating Week.''

NOW, THEREFORE, I, GEORGE W. BUSH, President of the
United States of America, do hereby proclaim May 20
through May 26, 2006, as National Safe Boating Week. I
encourage the Governors of the 50 States and the
Commonwealth of Puerto Rico, and officials of other
areas subject to the jurisdiction of the United States,
to join in observing this week. I also urge all
Americans to learn more about safe boating practices
and always engage in proper and responsible conduct
while on the water.

IN WITNESS WHEREOF, I have hereunto set my hand this
twelfth day of May, in the year of our Lord two
thousand six, and of the Independence of the United
States of America the two hundred and thirtieth.

(Presidential Sig.)B