National Safe Boating Week runs through Friday, May 22

SUBMITTED

Local mayors for the cities of Sumter and Manning, Mayors David Merchant and Julia Nelson, respectively, signed proclamations marking their support of National Safe Boating Week, which began May 16 and runs through May 22. During the week, the U.S. Coast Guard (and its local Auxiliary Flotilla 12-1) along with other federal and state boating partners encourage all boaters to explore and enjoy America's waters responsibly.

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. The proclamations specifically stated that:

"- Whereas, on average, 650 people die each year in boating-related accidents in the U.S.; 75 percent of these fatalities are caused by drowning, and

- Whereas, the vast majority of these accidents are caused by human error or poor judgement 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."

The local USCGAUX Flotilla 12-1 offers boating safety courses (next course is June 20 in Sumter) and free vessel safety inspections at boat landings at area lakes and other areas. Contacts for Flotilla 12-1 are Tom Niles (757) 660-7229, Bob Dalton (315) 440-4986 or Bob Young (803) 406-7669. SCDNR also offers boating safety classes and training, and these can be reached at its website at SCDR.SC.gov.