National Safe Boating WeekPROCLAMATION
VILLAGE OF NORTH PALM BEACH
OFFICE OF THE MAYOR
NATIONAL SAFE BOATING WEEK
WHEREAS, for nearly 100 million Americans, boating continues to be a popular recreational activity. From
coast to coast, and everywhere in between, people are taking to the water and enjoying time together boating,
sailing, paddling and fishing. During National Safe Boating Week, the U.S. Coast Guard and its federal, state,
and local safe boating partners encourage all boaters to explore and enjoy America's beautiful waters responsibly; and
WHEREAS, safe boating begins with preparation. The Coast Guard estimates that human error accounts for 70
percent of all boating accidents and that life jackets could prevent nearly 84 percent of boating fatalities.
Through basic boating safety procedures — carrying lifesaving emergency distress and communications
equipment, wearing life jackets, attending safe boating courses, participating in free boat safety checks, and
staying sober when navigating — we can help ensure boaters on America's coastal, inland, and offshore waters
stay safe throughout the season. National Safe Boating Week is observed to bring attention to important life-
saving tips for recreational boaters so that they can have a safer, more fun experience out on the water
throughout the year; and
WHEREAS, on average, 600 people die each year in boating -related accidents in the U.S.; 77 percent of these
are fatalities caused by drowning; and
WHEREAS, the vast majority of these accidents are caused by human error or poor judgment and not by the
boat, equipment or environmental factors; and
WHEREAS, a significant number of boaters who lose their lives by drowning each year would be alive today
had they worn their life jackets; and
NOW, THEREFORE, I, Susan Bickel, do hereby support the goals of the Safe Boating Campaign. By virtue of the
authority vested in me as Mayor of the Village of North Palm Beach, Florida, I hereby proclaim May 16-22,2020, as
NATIONAL SAFE BOATING WEEK
and the start of the year-round effort to promote safe boating in the Village of North Palm Beach, Florida. I urge all
those who boat to practice safe boating habits and wear a life jacket at all times while boating.
IN WITNESS WHERE OF,1 have h
be affixed this 27th day of April, 20,'
' :d the Seal of the Village of North Palm Beach to
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< MAYOR