[Federal Register Volume 59, Number 105 (Thursday, June 2, 1994)]
[Unknown Section]
[Page 0]
From the Federal Register Online via the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]
[FR Doc No: X94-100602]
[[Page Unknown]]
[Federal Register: June 2, 1994]
National Safe Boating Week, 1994
By the President of the United States of America
A Proclamation
The discovery and subsequent development of the United States
evolved through the exploration and utilization of the abundant
waterways of this great Nation. During the territorial expansion,
our founders could scarcely have dreamed of the significant role
our vast water resources would ultimately play in commerce,
agriculture, industry, energy production, and boundless
recreational activities. This year it is anticipated that more
than 70 million Americans will enjoy on-the-water recreation
throughout our country.
While boating can be a wonderful source of pleasure, improperly
handled watercraft can be dangerous and sometimes even deadly.
Tragically, approximately 800 persons die each year in boating-
related accidents in our Nation alone. Because most of these
accidents can be prevented, the United States Coast Guard and
other Government agencies are working with volunteer
organizations around the country to educate the boating public
and to make safety the number one priority for all who use the
Nation's waterways.
It is imperative that those enjoying the privilege of aquatic
recreational activities must accept the responsibility of
ensuring safety on the water. For boaters, this means respecting
the marine environment, being well-informed, carrying,
maintaining, and using the proper equipment, and remaining sober.
Only then will boaters be prepared to prevent hazardous
situations or deal with them if they arise. When boat operators
and their passengers disregard their personal responsibilities,
the consequences can be serious and direct. Statistics indicate
that about 50 percent of boating accidents are alcohol-related
and that more than 85 percent of the people who die while boating
are not wearing personal floatation devices.
Accordingly, this year during National Safe Boating Week,
proclaimed annually at the start of the summer boating season,
recreational boaters are urged to heed the call of
responsibility--to ``Boat Smart, Boat Safe, Boat Sober.''
In recognition of the need to promote 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 week commencing on the first Sunday in June
as ``National Safe Boating Week.''
NOW, THEREFORE, I, WILLIAM J. CLINTON, President of the United
States of America, do hereby proclaim the week beginning June 5,
1994, 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 provide for the observance of this week. I also urge all
Americans to become informed and to always practice safe
recreational boating.
IN WITNESS WHEREOF, I have hereunto set my hand this twenty-
seventh day of May, in the year of our Lord nineteen hundred and
ninety-four, and of the Independence of the United States of
America the two hundred and eighteenth.
