Backup Documents 05/14/2024 Item #16H 1PROCLAMATION
WHEREAS, Florida leads the nation with over 1 million registered vessels across the
state. Collier County registered almost 25,000 vessels in 2022. Florida
Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission reported 735 boating
accidents in Florida in 2022 with 65 fatalities, and 18 accidents reported
in Collier County with no fatalities. Florida has the dubious distinction
of leading the Nation in boating accidents; and
WHEREAS, the Coast Guard estimates that human error accounts for most boating
accidents and that life jackets could prevent nearly 86 percent of
boating fatalities. Through basic boating safety procedures such as
carrying lifesaving emergency distress and communications equipment,
wearing life jackets, attending safe boating courses, participating in
free boat safety checks, and staying sober when on the water, we can
help ensure boaters on America's coastal, inland, and offshore waters
stay safe throughout the season; and
WHEREAS, National Safe Boating Week is observed to bring attention to important
life-saving tips for recreational boaters so that they can have a safer,
more fun experience on the water throughout the year; and
WHEREAS, 636 people died in 2022 in boating -related accidents in the United
States, and most of these accidents were caused by human error or poor
judgment and not by the boat, equipment, or environmental factors; and
WHEREAS, a significant number of boaters who lose their lives by drowning each
year would be alive today had they worn properly fitted life jackets;
NOW THEREFORE, be it proclaimed by the Board of County Commissioners of Collier
County, Florida, that May 18 - 24, 2024, be designated as
NATIONAL SAFE BOATING WEEK
DONE AND ORDERED THIS 14A Day of May 2024.
BOARD OF COUNTY COMMISSIONERS
COLLIER COUNTY, FLORIDA
CHRIS HALL, CHAIRMAN