[United States Statutes at Large, Volume 130, 114th Congress, 2nd Session]
[From the U.S. Government Publishing Office, www.gpo.gov]

 
Proclamation 9451 of May 20, 2016

National Safe Boating Week, 2016

By the President of the United States of America

A Proclamation

Each year, as summer approaches and warmer weather draws crowds to our
Nation's beaches, lakes, and rivers, we set aside a week to recognize
the importance of taking boating safety precautions before taking to the
water. Throughout National Safe Boating Week, we recognize the risks
associated with one of our country's favorite pastimes and encourage
everyone to apply safe boating practices.
Safe boating practices should be observed prior to leaving land--no
matter the length of the trip, the type of boat, or the size of the body
of water. Boaters can reduce risks and enhance their safety by enrolling
in a boating safety course. Vessels should be thoroughly examined, float
plans should be prepared, and current laws and regulations should be
known prior to embarking on a journey on the water. I encourage everyone
to visit www.USCGBoating.org to find resources, learn more about
responsible boating, or apply for a free vessel safety check. When boat
operators and their passengers exercise caution when boating--including
by wearing life jackets at all times and avoiding consumption of drugs
and alcohol--accidents can be avoided, lives can be saved, and everyone
can have a safe and enjoyable experience.
This week, we also recognize the men and women of the United States
Coast Guard who dedicate themselves to protecting our Nation's waterways
and assisting those at sea. As we continue to take advantage of our
country's beautiful bodies of water, let us recommit to ensuring water
safety and exercising appropriate boating procedures.
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, BARACK OBAMA, President of the United States of
America, do hereby proclaim May 21 through May 27, 2016, as National
Safe Boating Week. I encourage all Americans who partici

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pate in boating activities to observe this occasion by learning more
about safe boating practices and taking advantage of boating education.
IN WITNESS WHEREOF, I have hereunto set my hand this twentieth day of
May, in the year of our Lord two thousand sixteen, and of the
Independence of the United States of America the two hundred and
fortieth.
BARACK OBAMA