Boaters encouraged to Always ‘Wear It!’

This July 4th holiday, thousands of people will enjoy boating. Nevertheless, with approximately 500 people drowning each year from recreational boating accidents, the North American Safe Boating Campaign reminds boaters of the importance of boating safety during this high-boating traffic holiday. “For some people, July 4th celebrations may be the only time they get on a boat the entire summer,” said Virgil Chambers, executive director of the National Safe Boating Council, a lead organization for the campaign. “Whether you’re an experienced or new boater, always boat responsibly and wear a life jacket.” The campaign, simply known as “Wear It!” encourages boaters to take the Boating Safety Pledge before July 4th. The pledge allows boaters to share with others their dedication to boating safety and wearing a life jacket every time they are on the water. Boaters can sign and share the pledge via Facebook and Twitter by visiting http://www.safeboatingcampaign.com/camp-pledge.htm. In addition, the campaign is looking for personal boating stories with a boating safety message through Labor Day weekend. Whether silly or serious, the best story will win a prize pack with a free life jacket. Boaters can submit stories online at http://www.safeboatingcampaign.com/camp-share.htm.