National Safe Boating Week, 2017

Proclamation 9613 of May 19, 2017

National Safe Boating Week, 2017

By the President of the United States of America

A Proclamation

As Memorial Day approaches and our summer season
arrives, it is important for Americans of all ages to
learn about safety on the water. During National Safe
Boating Week, the U.S. Coast Guard and its Federal,
State, and local safe boating partners encourage all
boaters to explore and enjoy America's beautiful waters
responsibly.

Safe boating begins with preparation. The Coast Guard
estimates that human error accounts for 70 percent of
all boating accidents and that life jackets could
prevent more than 80 percent of boating fatalities.
Through basic boating safety procedures--carrying
lifesaving emergency distress and communications
equipment, wearing life jackets, attending safe boating
courses, participating in free boat safety checks, and
staying sober when navigating--we can help ensure
boaters on America's coastal, inland, and offshore
waters stay safe throughout the season.

America's diverse waterways are waiting to be explored.
But before enjoying a day on the water, Americans
should take time this week to familiarize themselves
with safe boating practices so that everyone makes it
home unharmed.

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 before Memorial Day weekend
as ``National Safe Boating Week.''

NOW, THEREFORE, I, DONALD J. TRUMP, President of the
United States of America, do hereby proclaim May 21
through May 27, 2017, 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 safety education opportunities. I also
encourage the Governors of the States and Territories,
and appropriate officials of all units of government,
to join me in encouraging boating safety through events
and activities.

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