NEW ORLEANS – The Coast Guard encourages the public to participate in Wear Your Life Jacket to Work Day, Friday.
In 2011, the Coast Guard counted 4588 accidents that involved 758 deaths, 3,081 injuries and approximately $52 million dollars of damage to property as a result of recreational boating accidents.
“Today’s life jackets are comfortable, stylish and easy to wear. In fact, they don’t even have to be jackets anymore,” said Ed Huntsman, recreational safe boating specialist for the 8th Coast Guard District. “Old-fashioned, bulky orange life jackets have been replaced with varieties of life jackets, such as inflatable life jackets that resemble a pair of suspenders or a belt pack. There are specific styles made for anglers, hunters, skiers and other sports enthusiasts. One style even has a built-in walkie-talkie.”
Join your colleagues, peers and friends around the world in demonstrating how easy it is to wear a life jacket – even at work!
Just prior to National Safe Boating Week and the fourth-annual “Ready, Set, Wear It!” event held Friday, we are asking you to take a photo of yourself wearing your life jacket to work.
Participants in cities around the globe will gather to set a world record for the most life jackets worn and inflatable life jackets inflated. The goal is not only to promote the comfortable and versatile options when it comes to life jackets, but also to educate the public about life jackets and safe boating in general.
Don’t forget to post your photo on the “Ready, Set, Wear it!” Facebook wall or email to outreach@safeboatingcouncil.org for others to see you “Wear it!” at work.
To create or participate in the “Ready, Set, Wear it!” event click here
For more information on the National Safe Boating Campaign click here
For the complete 2011 safe boating statistics click here
