National Safe Boating Council Encourages Boaters to Take the "Safe Summer Pledge" Before the July 4th Holiday

Just in time for one of the busiest boating weekends of the year, the National Safe Boating Council (NSBC) has created a new way for boaters to stay safe on the water and encourage their friends and family to do the same. The NSBC is encouraging all boaters to take the Safe Summer pledge this July 4th. The pledge allows boaters to share with their friends and family their dedication to boat safely and wear a life jacket each and every time they are on the water.

The pledge can be signed and shared via your social networks by visiting www.safeboatingcampaign.com/camp-pledge.htm.

In addition to the Safe Summer pledge, the NSBC is looking for real Safe Summer boating stories. Whether silly or serious, boaters can submit personal stories of safety and be entered in for a chance to win the Summer Fun package, which includes a life jacket, beach towel and Flip Mino HD camcorder. Boaters and the general public can submit their stories by email at outreach@safeboatingcouncil.org or online by visiting http://bit.ly/jzIGAh
 
"July 4^th celebrations and boating seem to go hand-in-hand, which is why it's so important to remember to stay safe and always wear your life jacket," said Virgil Chambers, executive director of the National Safe Boating Council. "The Fourth of July weekend may be one of the only days some people get on a boat the entire summer, and we want to provide all boaters with a fun way to share their commitment to the 'Wear It!' campaign and encourage their friends and family to join in on the fun."
According to the U.S. Coast Guard, 672 people died from boating related accidents in 2010 -- a decrease of nearly 9 percent from 2009. However, approximately 88 percent of drowning victims were not wearing a life jacket.

"Life jacket wear is one of the easiest ways you can save a life in case of emergency," Chambers added. "With the range of today's comfortable, stylish styles made for any boating activity, there is no excuse not to 'Wear It!' this summer."