National Safe Boating Week, 2012

Proclamation 8825 of May 21, 2012

National Safe Boating Week, 2012

By the President of the United States of America

A Proclamation

For generations, Americans have enjoyed our scenic
lakes, rivers, and oceans as places for rest and
recreation, sharing with friends and family a well-
loved tradition. During National Safe Boating Week, we
renew our commitment to safe, responsible practices on
our Nation's waterways.

By planning ahead and taking basic safety precautions,
boat operators and passengers can help prevent needless
accidents and deaths. Before going out on the water,
boaters can minimize the risk of accident or injury by
taking a boating safety course, performing a vessel
safety check, filing a float plan with a friend or
family member prior to departure, and carefully
assessing weather conditions. Operators and passengers
alike can stay safe by wearing a life jacket at all
times, and by forgoing alcohol consumption while on or
operating a boat.

The United States Coast Guard continues to collaborate
with organizations and governments across our country
to prevent loss of life, personal harm, and property
damage associated with unsafe recreational boating. As
we mark National Safe Boating Week, let us reflect on
that important mission and resolve to do our part to
ensure America's waterways are safe and secure for all.

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, BARACK OBAMA, President of the
United States of America, do hereby proclaim May 19
through May 25, 2012, as National Safe Boating Week. I
encourage all Americans who participate in boating
activities to observe this occasion by learning more
about safe boating practices and taking advantage of
boating education.

IN WITNESS WHEREOF, I have hereunto set my hand this
twenty-first day of May, in the year of our Lord two
thousand twelve, and of the Independence of the United
States of America the two hundred and thirty-sixth.