Mayor Hodges proclaims National Safe Boating Week in Brookings

The Brookings City Council meeting on May 12, 2025, kicked off with a significant proclamation aimed at promoting safe boating practices. Mayor Isaac Hodges announced the week of May 17 to May 23 as "Safe Boating Week," in collaboration with the U.S. Coast Guard.

The proclamation highlighted the importance of responsible boating, noting that over a hundred million Americans engage in recreational boating activities each year. Mayor Hodges emphasized that human error is a leading cause of boating accidents, with life jackets capable of preventing nearly 75% of boating fatalities.

The initiative aims to raise awareness about essential safety measures, including wearing life jackets, attending safe boating courses, and conducting free boat safety checks. The mayor's proclamation serves as a reminder that an average of 650 people die annually in boating-related accidents in the U.S., with the majority of these tragedies linked to drowning and preventable human errors.

This proactive approach by the Brookings City Council underscores the community's commitment to ensuring safety on the water, encouraging residents to enjoy recreational boating while prioritizing safety.