USCG Auxiliary Public Affairs Dept.
Press Release
Coast Guard Auxiliary Takes Spring Break Seriously
The Coast Guard Auxiliary encourages Life Jackets be worn during spring break, as the season begins to thaw out from winter. Boating is a big part of Spring break celebrations. And wearing a life jacket while having fun on the water makes good sense. Today’s life jackets are technologically advanced, making them more comfortable and less restrictive.
Of the boating fatalities that occurred in 2009, 67 percent of the victims drowned. Of that group, 84 percent were not wearing a life jacket. Knowing how to swim is one of the most common reasons given for not wearing a life jacket and gives boaters a false of security. Often the victim has a serious injury or is knocked unconscious and cannot swim. Other factors that can affect swimming ability include cold water immersion, heavy cloths and alcohol consumption. Be sure to check local and state laws that regulate rivers, lakes and oceans.
The Coast Guard Auxiliary is now recruiting members to help support Life Saving Education and prevention. For More information: http://www.auxpa.org/
The United States Coast Guard Auxiliary, the uniformed civilian, volunteer Component of Team Coast Guard assists the active duty Coast Guard in all of its varied missions, except for military and direct law enforcement. These men and women can be found on the nation's waterways, in the air, in classrooms and on the dock, performing Maritime Domain Awareness patrols, safety patrols, vessel safety checks and public education.
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