National Statistics Show Downward Trend in Recreational Boating Deaths

WASHINGTON, DC--(Marketwired - May 16, 2014) - The U.S. Coast Guard released its 2013 Recreational Boating Statistics recently, revealing that boating fatalities decreased to 560, the lowest number of boating fatalities on record. This news comes just one year after the previous record low was recorded in 2012, with 651 recreational boating fatalities. From 2012 to 2013, deaths in boating related accidents decreased by 14 percent.

The National Safe Boating Council (NSBC), a strategic partner of the U.S. Coast Guard, is pleased to recognize this accomplishment, and encourages the boating safety community to continue its course.

"While we should all be proud of the continuing downward trend of recreational boating deaths, we must remember that each live lost is a family and a story left behind," remarks Rachel Johnson, executive director of the National Safe Boating Council. "The NSBC will continue to work collaboratively with the U.S. Coast Guard, the NSBC's member organizations, and partners nationwide to promote safer boating."

Each year, the National Safe Boating Council produces initiatives and programs in conjunction with other like-minded organizations to promote safer boating practices, including life jacket wear and on-water training. Its Wear It! campaign, designed to educate boaters about the importance of life jacket wear at all times while boating, was recently recognized with a highly-coveted award for the "Power to Make a Better World."

"The recreational boating safety community has done great work nationwide to reach boaters and that work is really making a difference," comments Chris Edmonston, Chair of the NSBC. "By working together, with one strong voice, we can help boaters become more educated, and therefore more safe while enjoying one of America's most popular activities."

To view the 2013 Recreational Boating Statistics, visit http://www.uscgboating.org/assets/1/AssetManager/2013RecBoatingStats.pdf.

About the National Safe Boating Council

The National Safe Boating Council (NSBC) is the foremost coalition for the advancement and promotion of safer boating through education, outreach, and training. The NSBC accomplishes this mission by promoting outreach and research initiatives that support boating education and safety awareness; improving the professional development of boating safety educators through training; and developing and recognizing outstanding boating safety programs. To learn more about the NSBC and its programs, visit www.SafeBoatingCouncil.org.