[Weekly Compilation of Presidential Documents Volume 32, Number 20 (Monday, May 20, 1996)]
[Page 879]
[Online from the Government Publishing Office, www.gpo.gov]

<R04>
Proclamation 6897--National Safe Boating Week, 1996

May 17, 1996

By the President of the United States

of America

A Proclamation

    Each year, more Americans choose recreational boating as a means of 
appreciating our Nation's scenic lakes, beautiful rivers, and vast ocean 
waterways. Boating is a leisure activity that can be enjoyed by people 
of all ages and abilities, offering a unique perspective on an 
unparalleled variety of natural landscapes. This pastime is not without 
risk, however, and a thorough knowledge of water safety techniques and 
equipment is an essential part of being a responsible boater.
    Studies show that in more than 77 percent of the fully documented 
recreational boating fatalities that occur every year, the victim was 
not wearing a life jacket. Falling overboard and capsizing are the 
leading causes of these deaths, and more than half of all boating 
accidents are alcohol-related--facts that clearly illustrate the 
importance of not mixing alcohol and boating, and of properly using 
personal flotation devices. Skippers, crew members, passengers, and all 
those who participate in nautical sports should wear safety equipment 
every time they take to the water.
    I commend the United States Coast Guard and the many State and local 
recreational boating organizations that are working with Government 
agencies and volunteers across the country to promote the use of life 
jackets and to educate the public about other lifesaving measures. As we 
look forward to the summer months and spending time with family and 
friends on America's waterways, such efforts are vital to ensuring our 
citizens' health and safety.
    In recognition of the value 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 18 through May 24, 1996, 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 urge all Americans to practice safe boating habits 
during this week and throughout the year.
    In Witness Whereof, I have hereunto set my hand this seventeenth day 
of May, in the year of our Lord nineteen hundred and ninety-six, and of 
the Independence of the United States of America the two hundred and 
twentieth.
                                            William J. Clinton

[Filed with the Office of the Federal Register, 8:45 a.m., May 21, 1996]

Note: This proclamation will be published in the Federal Register on May 
22.