[Weekly Compilation of Presidential Documents Volume 31, Number 19 (Monday, May 15, 1995)]
[Pages 812-813]
[Online from the Government Publishing Office, www.gpo.gov]

<R04>
Proclamation 6798--National Safe Boating Week, 1995

May 11, 1995

By the President of the United States

of America

A Proclamation

    Recreational boating has become one of this Nation's most popular 
leisure-time activities. It is estimated that in 1995, more

[[Page 813]]

than 76 million Americans will enjoy our country's scenic waterways, 
engaging in pastimes from fishing and cruising to waterskiing, sailing, 
and sightseeing. Most Americans will act responsibly in these 
activities, ensuring the safety of their families and friends. Yet much 
work remains to be done if we are to make boating safe for all of us.
    Studies indicate that in more than 85 percent of the fully 
documented recreational boating fatalities, the victim was not wearing 
any type of life jacket. This tragic statistic highlights a simple fact: 
personal flotation devices can help prevent more than 600 fatalities 
annually. I urge all Americans to wear them regularly when on our 
waterways.
    The United States Coast Guard, the National Safe Boating Council, 
and the many State and local recreational boating organizations and 
governmental agencies are working with volunteer organizations across 
the country to educate the boating public about the importance of 
wearing life jackets. This advice applies not only to boat operators but 
also to passengers and all individuals participating in sporting 
activities on the waterways. Falling overboard and capsizing are the 
leading causes of boating fatalities, and more than half of all boating 
accidents are alcohol-related. But with responsible behavior and the 
proper precautions, families and friends can experience the joys of 
boating for years to come.
    In recognition of the importance of 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 seven day period prior to the Memorial Day Weekend, as ``National 
Safe Boating Week.''
    Now, Therefore, I, William J. Clinton, President of the United 
States of America, do hereby proclaim May 20 through May 26, 1995, 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 week. I urge all Americans to practice safe recreational boating 
during these days and throughout the year.
    In Witness Whereof, I have hereunto set my hand this eleventh day of 
May, in the year of our Lord nineteen hundred and ninety-five, and of 
the Independence of the United States of America the two hundred and 
nineteenth.
                                            William J. Clinton

[Filed with the Office of the Federal Register, 3:14 p.m., May 11, 1995]

Note: This proclamation was published in the Federal Register on May 15.