National Safe Boating Week Scheduled for May 17-23, 2014 Those first few warm weekends out on the water are an exhilarating time for boaters. In the excitement, don’t forget to review safety rules and regulations. Gov. Nathan Deal recently signed a proclamation establishing May 17-23, 2014 as Georgia Safe Boating Week. As part of the nationwide National Safe Boating Week, Georgia Department of Natural Resources’ Law Enforcement Division is working with partner organizations, such as the National Safe Boating Council to encourage safe and responsible boating, including the practice of always wearing a life jacket, and being alert and aware while on the water. “Accidents on the water happen too fast to reach and put on a stowed life jacket,” said Captain Mike England. “It is important that instead, everyone consistently wears a life jacket and that you boat responsibly.” If you think that a life jacket is orange and bulky, you have not seen what is on the shelves now. Innovative options, such as inflatable life jackets, allowing mobility and flexibility for activities like boating and fishing are much cooler in warm weather. U.S. Coast Guard nationwide statistics show that drowning was the reported cause of death in three-fourths of recreational boating fatalities in 2012, and that 85 percent of those who drowned were not wearing life jackets. That’s why boating safety advocates continue to push for increased and consistent life jacket wear on the water. About the National Safe Boating Council: The National Safe Boating Council represents over 330 U.S. and Canadian organizations committed to reducing boating accidents and enhancing the boating experience. Visit SafeBoatingCampaignfor campaign materials and additional safe boating resources. About Safe Boating in Georgia: For more information about boating in Georgia, visit goboatgeorgia/boating .
Posted on: Tue, 20 May 2014 02:49:35 +0000
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