SENATE RESOLUTION NO. 845

WHEREAS, National Safe Boating Week is being observed from May 18 through 24, 2013; and

WHEREAS, Recreational boating, including fishing and waterskiing, is an immensely popular summer sport among Texans, and waterways can quickly become crowded, resulting in confusion, unforeseen risks, and, too often, tragedy; and

WHEREAS, According to the National Safe Boating Council, 700 people die each year in boating-related accidents in the United States, and approximately 70 percent of these fatalities are caused by drowning; the vast majority of accidents occur because of human error or poor judgment and can be easily prevented; recreational boaters should never operate a boat while under the influence of alcohol or drugs; and

WHEREAS, Statistics have shown that about 80 percent of those who drowned in boating mishaps were not wearing a life jacket; although many boaters stow life jackets on board, there is rarely enough time to properly employ one in the event of an accident; in an effort to increase people's willingness to wear this essential piece of safety equipment, modern life jackets have been designed to be smaller, lighter, and more comfortable; and

WHEREAS, Boating accidents happen regardless of one's level of experience, and wearing a life jacket is the most effective way to prevent drowning for veteran and novice boaters alike; now, therefore, be it

RESOLVED, That the Senate of the State of Texas, 83rd Legislature, hereby recognize May 18 through 24, 2013, as National Safe Boating Week and encourage Texans to wear life jackets at all times while on the water.

Taylor

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President of the Senate

I hereby certify that the above Resolution was adopted by the Senate on May 6, 2013.

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Secretary of the Senate

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Member, Texas Senate