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