BY THE GOVERNOR OF THE STATE OF GEORGIA
A PROCLAMATION
GEORGIA SAFE BOATING WEEK
WHEREAS:
WHEREAS: WHEREAS: WHEREAS: THEREFORE:
The State of Georgia is blessed with many beautiful and accessible coastal waters, freshwater rivers, and lakes. Unfortunately, an average of 700 people die each year in boating related accidents in the United States. Nearly 70 percent of these fatalities are caused by drowning. The vast majority of these accidents are brought about by human error or poor judgment rather than mechanical or environmental factors. During Georgia Safe Boating Week and throughout the year, dedicated enforcement officers and men and women of voluntary organizations give Georgians the knowledge and skill to become safer and more responsible boaters; and
We have the freedom and ability to use these Georgia waterways for our personal recreation and enjoyment. The growing popularity of recreational boating and related water sports is placing a greater demand on the North American Safe Boating Campaign, U.S. Coast Guard Auxiliary, U.S. Power Squadron, and the Georgia Department of Natural Resources, who strive to ensure the safety of the boating public; and
A significant number of boaters who lose their lives by drowning would be alive today if they had worn life jackets. Today, life jackets are more comfortable and more attractive than styles of years past and deserve a fresh look by today's boating public; and
Checking the weather, filing a float plan, staying sober, and following Coast Guard regulations are some of the essential elements of safe boating. Boating safety knowledge and skills are important in reducing human error, improving judgment, and ultimately saving lives; now
I, NATHAN DEAL, Governor of the State of Georgia, do hereby proclaim May 16-23, 201 5, as GEORGIA SAFE BOATING WEEK and urge Georgians who boat to "Wear it!" and practice safe boating habits.
In witness thereof, I have hereunto set my hand and caused the Seal of the Executive Department to be affixed this 8th day of May in the year of our Lord two thousand fifteen.
ATTEST
GOVERNOR
CHIEF OF STAFF