Minden Mayor Nick Cox on Friday issued a proclamation declaring May 17-23 as Safe Boating Week in Minden, aligning with the National Safe Boating Week campaign observed across the country.
The proclamation was presented to Jerry Madden, a 25-year member of the National Safe Boating Council, during a brief ceremony attended by community leaders. Mayor Cox and others wore life jackets for a commemorative photo to highlight the importance of life jacket use in boating safety.
National Safe Boating Week begins annually on the third Saturday in May and serves as the kickoff to the yearlong Safe Boating Campaign, which aims to educate the public on safe boating practices ahead of the Memorial Day holiday.
“Accidents on the water happen too fast to reach and put on a stowed life jacket,” the council advises. Boating safety advocates recommend that boaters and passengers wear properly fitted and fastened life jackets at all times while on the water. Adult life jackets are not suitable for children, and a snug fit is essential to ensure effectiveness.
Madden and the National Safe Boating Council provide free boating safety courses for children and adults in an effort to reduce preventable accidents and raise awareness about responsible boating behavior.
The National Safe Boating Council also promotes “Wear Your Life Jacket at Work Day” during the week, encouraging participants to demonstrate safety practices and engage their communities in conversation about water safety.
With more recreational boaters on the water than ever before, officials say the campaign’s message is increasingly important. The Safe Boating Campaign continues throughout the year with various local and national activities aimed at reinforcing safety on the water.