Presidential Proclamation — National Safe Boating Week, 2016

BY THE PRESIDENT OF THE UNITED STATES OF AMERICA
A PROCLAMATION

Each year, as summer approaches and warmer weather draws crowds to our
Nation’s beaches, lakes, and rivers, we set aside a week to recognize the
importance of taking boating safety precautions before taking to the water.
Throughout National Safe Boating Week, we recognize the risks associated
with one of our country’s favorite pastimes and encourage everyone to apply
safe boating practices.

Safe boating practices should be observed prior to leaving land — no matter
the length of the trip, the type of boat, or the size of the body of water.
Boaters can reduce risks and enhance their safety by enrolling in a boating
safety course. Vessels should be thoroughly examined, float plans should be
prepared, and current laws and regulations should be known prior to
embarking on a journey on the water. I encourage everyone to visit
www.USCGBoating.org to find resources, learn more about responsible boating,
or apply for a free vessel safety check. When boat operators and their
passengers exercise caution when boating — including by wearing life
jackets at all times and avoiding consumption of drugs and alcohol —
accidents can be avoided, lives can be saved, and everyone can have a safe
and enjoyable experience.

This week, we also recognize the men and women of the United States Coast
Guard who dedicate themselves to protecting our Nation’s waterways and
assisting those at sea. As we continue to take advantage of our country’s
beautiful bodies of water, let us recommit to ensuring water safety and
exercising appropriate boating procedures.

In recognition of the importance of safe boating practices, the Congress, by
joint resolution approved June 4, 1958 (36 U.S.C. 131), as amended, has
authorized and requested the President to proclaim annually the 7-day period
prior to Memorial Day weekend as “National Safe Boating Week.”

NOW, THEREFORE, I, BARACK OBAMA, President of the United States of America,
do hereby proclaim May 21 through May 27, 2016, as National Safe Boating
Week. I encourage all Americans who participate in boating activities to
observe this occasion by learning more about safe boating practices and
taking advantage of boating education.

IN WITNESS WHEREOF, I have hereunto set my hand this twentieth day of May,
in the year of our Lord two thousand sixteen, and of the Independence of the
United States of America the two hundred and fortieth.

BARACK OBAMA