National Safe Boating Week, 1996

Proclamation 6897 of May 17, 1996

National Safe Boating Week, 1996

By the President of the United States of America

A Proclamation

Each year, more Americans choose recreational boating
as a means of appreciating our Nation's scenic lakes,
beautiful rivers, and vast ocean waterways. Boating is
a leisure activity that can be enjoyed by people of all
ages and abilities, offering a unique perspective on an
unparalleled variety of natural landscapes. This
pastime is not without risk, however, and a thorough
knowledge of water safety techniques and equipment is
an essential part of being a responsible boater.

Studies show that in more than 77 percent of the fully
documented recreational boating fatalities that occur
every year, the victim was not wearing a life jacket.
Falling overboard and capsizing are the leading causes
of these deaths, and more than half of all boating
accidents are alcohol-related--facts that clearly
illustrate the importance of not mixing alcohol and
boating, and of properly using personal flotation
devices. Skippers, crew members, passengers, and all
those who participate in nautical sports should wear
safety equipment every time they take to the water.

I commend the United States Coast Guard and the many
State and local recreational boating organizations that
are working with Government agencies and volunteers
across the country to promote the use of life jackets
and to educate the public about other lifesaving
measures. As we look forward to the summer months and
spending time with family and friends on America's
waterways, such efforts are vital to ensuring our
citizens' health and safety.

In recognition of the value 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 18
through May 24, 1996, 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 occasion. I urge all
Americans to practice safe boating habits during this
week and throughout the year.

IN WITNESS WHEREOF, I have hereunto set my hand this
seventeenth day of May, in the year of our Lord
nineteen hundred and ninety-six, and of the
Independence of the United States of America the two
hundred and twentieth.