NATIONAL SAFE BOATING WEEK

MAY 22-28 2021

 For nearly 100 million Americans, boating continues to be a popular recreational activity. From coast to coast, and everywhere in between, people are taking to the water and enjoying time together boating, sailing, paddling and fishing. 

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 nearly 86 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. 

National Safe Boating Week is observed to bring attention to important life-saving tips for recreational boaters so that they can have a safer, more fun experience out on the water throughout the year.

On average, 600 people die each year in boating-related accidents in the U.S.; 79 percent of these are fatalities caused by drowning.  The vast majority of these accidents are caused by human error or poor judgment and not by the boat, equipment or environmental factors. A significant number of boaters who lose their lives by drowning each year would be alive today had they worn their life jackets.

Don’t be a statistic.  Have fun and boat responsibly. 

Wear Your Life Jacket To Work Day is Friday, May 21.  Show your support for safe boating by wearing your life jacket to work that day!

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