SENATE RESOLUTION NO. 844
WHEREAS, The Senate of the State of Texas is pleased to
recognize the North American Safe Boating Campaign on the
occasion of National Safe Boating Week, which is being observed
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,
an average of 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 commend the goals of the North American
Safe Boating Campaign and recognize May 18 through 24, 2013, as
Safe Boating Week in Texas; and, be it further
RESOLVED, That a copy of this Resolution be prepared in
honor of Safe Boating Week in Texas.
Van de Putte
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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