Baldwin County Commission Endorses National Safe Boating Week

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Posted 5/18/18

In recognition of National Safe Boating Week, the Baldwin County Commission recently presented a proclamation to the Perdido Bay Power Squadron, which promotes boating safety education. In 2016, the …

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Baldwin County Commission Endorses National Safe Boating Week

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In recognition of National Safe Boating Week, the Baldwin County Commission recently presented a proclamation to the Perdido Bay Power Squadron, which promotes boating safety education. In 2016, the US Coast Guard counted 4,463 recreational boating accidents that involved 701 deaths, 2903 injuries, and damage to property costing $49 million. The number of injuries and deaths increased over those reported in 2015. The National Safe Boating Council reminds boaters to always wear their life vests while out on the water. During National Safe Boating week, May 19-25, activities are planned to increase awareness of the importance of simple safety measures that can save lives. The US Coast Guard reports that in 2016, the fatality rate was 5.9 deaths per 100,000 registered recreational vessels, an 11.3 percent increase over the previous year. Where the cause of death was known, 80 percent of fatal boating accident victims drowned. Of those drowning victims with reported life jacket usage, 83 percent were not wearing a life jacket. Recreational boaters are encouraged to take advantage of training courses that the Perdido Bay Power Squadron offers. For information about scheduled events and classes, contact Education Officer Richard Carson at 251-980-1536.