83R24020 MGR-D
By: Larson H.R. No. 1754
R E S O L U T I O N
WHEREAS, National Safe Boating Week is being observed from
May 18 to 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 House of Representatives of the 83rd Texas
Legislature hereby recognize May 18 to 24, 2013, as National Safe
Boating Week and encourage Texans to wear life jackets at all times
while on the water.