May 19, 2007 – Governor John P. deJongh Jr. has proclaimed May 19-25, as National Safe Boating Week in the United States Virgin Islands, according to a press release from Government House. The V.I. is blessed with some of the most beautiful and accessible coastal waters in the world. It is a privilege to have the freedom and ability to use these areas for our personal recreation and enjoyment.
The growing popularity of recreational boating and related water sports is placing a great demand on the V.I. Department of Planning and Natural Resources' Environmental Enforcement Officers, the U.S. Coast Guard, and voluntary organizations, such as the U.S. Coast Guard Auxiliary that strive to ensure the safety of the boating public.
During the National Safe Boating Week and throughout the year, dedicated enforcement officers, and men and women of voluntary organizations, in a concerted effort to save lives and protect our marine environment, give our residents the knowledge and skills they need to become safer and more responsible boaters.
Approximately 700 people die each year in boating related accidents in the U.S. Nearly 80 percent of these are fatalities caused by drowning. The vast majority of these accidents are the result of operator error, often caused by fatigue, recklessness, intoxication from alcohol or drugs, or negligence in using life jackets, that claim the lives of innocent people and destroy priceless marine resources.
