[United States Statutes at Large, Volume 118, 108th Congress, 2nd Session]
[From the U.S. Government Publishing Office, www.gpo.gov]

Proclamation 7790 of May 21, 2004


 
National Safe Boating Week, 2004


By the President of the United States of America

A Proclamation

Our Nation's many waterways give millions of boating enthusiasts the
opportunity to enjoy the outdoors and spend time with family and
friends. With nearly 13 million recreational boats on our oceans, lakes,
and rivers, boating is a popular pastime. However, far too many
Americans are hurt or killed each year in boating accidents that are
largely preventable.
Each year, of the thousands of boating accidents that occur, many are
caused by operators who are careless, reckless, or inexperienced. In
most cases, boat operators had received no safety instruction, and many
of those who died could have been saved if they had worn life jackets.
During National Safe Boating week, we seek to raise awareness to improve
safety and reduce accidents on our Nation's waters.
Across the Nation, many groups are working to teach recreational boaters
how they can make boating safer through the 2004 North American Safe
Boating Campaign. These include the U.S. Coast Guard, the Coast Guard
Auxiliary, the National Safe Boating Council, and the National
Association of State Boating Law Administrators. These groups recommend
that boaters get boat safety checks, ensure that boats are properly
maintained, take safe boating classes, be aware of homeland security
issues, always wear a life jacket, and never operate a boat under the
influence of alcohol or drugs. By learning about boating safety and

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taking some simple precautions, recreational boaters can reduce the risk
of accidents and ensure that they enjoy their time on the water
responsibly.
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 prior to Memorial Day weekend as ``National Safe
Boating Week.'';
NOW, THEREFORE, I, GEORGE W. BUSH, President of the United States of
America, do hereby proclaim May 22 through May 28, 2004, 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 join in observing this occasion. I
also urge all boaters to learn more about safe boating practices, always
wear life jackets, and take advantage of boating safety programs
throughout the year.
IN WITNESS WHEREOF, I have hereunto set my hand this twenty-first day of
May, in the year of our Lord two thousand four, and of the Independence
of the United States of America the two hundred and twenty-eighth.
GEORGE W. BUSH

PROCLAMATION 7791--MAY 26, 2004