Governor Ron DeSantis issues proclamation for Safe Boating Week in Florida

Media contact: Shannon Knowles, 850-617-9666, Shannon.Knowles@MyFWC.com Release Date: 05-21-2022 All Articles Tags:

Boating Safety

TALLAHASSEE, FL – Today, Governor Ron DeSantis issued a proclamation for Safe Boating Week in Florida. We are grateful for his recognition of this important week urging Floridians and visitors to boat safely while enjoying Florida’s beautiful waterways.

SAFE BOATING WEEK IN FLORIDA

WHEREAS, Florida is the boating and fishing capital of the world, and recreational boating is a staple of the Sunshine State's lifestyle, tourism, and economy; and

WHEREAS, Florida has over 1,300 miles of coastline, 50,000 miles of rivers and streams, 7,800 lakes, and 4,000 square miles of estuaries for Floridians, visitors to our great state, and the wildlife that inhabit these areas to enjoy; and

WHEREAS, Florida's coastal waters are home to the greatest number of recreational boats and saltwater fishermen in the United States; and

WHEREAS, Florida is committed to ensuring the safety of all residents and visitors to our great state; and

WHEREAS, the Coast Guard estimates that human error accounts for most boating accidents and life jackets could prevent nearly 86 percent of boating-related deaths; and

WHEREAS, the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission (FWC) protects Floridians and our natural resources through law enforcement services - enforcing boating rules and regulations, coordinating boating safety campaigns and educational programs, and managing public waters and access to them - for our waterways and coastal communities; and

WHEREAS, the Florida Department of Highway Safety and Motor Vehicles issues boating licenses and temporary certificates for those who want to operate a boat and successfully complete the boating safety education requirements; and

WHEREAS, safe boating includes carrying lifesaving emergency distress and communications equipment, wearing life jackets, attending safe boating courses, participating in free boat safety checks, and staying sober when navigating; and

WHEREAS, Safe Boating Week in Florida is an opportunity to bring awareness to life-saving tips and promote safe boating so Floridians and visitors can safely experience the beauty of our waterways in the Boating Capital of the World.

NOW, THEREFORE, I, Ron DeSantis, Governor of the State of Florida, do hereby extend greetings and best wishes to all observing May 21 - 27, 2022, as Safe Boating Week in Florida.