National Safe Boating Week, 1995

Proclamation 6798 of May 11, 1995

National Safe Boating Week, 1995

By the President of the United States of America

A Proclamation

Recreational boating has become one of this Nation's
most popular leisure-time activities. It is estimated
that in 1995, more than 76 million Americans will enjoy
our country's scenic waterways, engaging in pastimes
from fishing and cruising to waterskiing, sailing, and
sightseeing. Most Americans will act responsibly in
these activities, ensuring the safety of their families
and friends. Yet much work remains to be done if we are
to make boating safe for all of us.

Studies indicate that in more than 85 percent of the
fully documented recreational boating fatalities, the
victim was not wearing any type of life jacket. This
tragic statistic highlights a simple fact: personal
flotation devices can help prevent more than 600
fatalities annually. I urge all Americans to wear them
regularly when on our waterways.

The United States Coast Guard, the National Safe
Boating Council, and the many State and local
recreational boating organizations and governmental
agencies are working with volunteer organizations
across the country to educate the boating public about
the importance of wearing life jackets. This advice
applies not only to boat operators but also to
passengers and all individuals participating in
sporting activities on the waterways. Falling overboard
and capsizing are the leading causes of boating
fatalities, and more than half of all boating accidents
are alcohol-related. But with responsible behavior and
the proper precautions, families and friends can
experience the joys of boating for years to come.

In recognition of the importance of safe boating
practices, the Congress, by joint resolution approved
June 4, 1958 [36 U.S.C. 161], as amended, has
authorized and requested the President to proclaim
annually the seven day period prior to the Memorial Day
Weekend, as ``National Safe Boating Week.''

NOW, THEREFORE, I, WILLIAM J. CLINTON, President of the
United States of America, do hereby proclaim May 20
through May 26, 1995, 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 urge all Americans to
practice safe recreational boating during these days
and throughout the year.
[[Page 25842]] IN WITNESS WHEREOF, I have hereunto set
my hand this eleventh day of May, in the year of our
Lord nineteen hundred and ninety-five, and of the
Independence of the United States of America the two
hundred and nineteenth.