Chuck,
I wonder how much of this is due to people using their boats less, due to
the gas prices. In my completely unscientific survey, the lake seemed less
busy this year, I didn't see any lines at the gas docks.
..




wrote in message
oups.com...
COAST GUARD REPORTED FATALITIES HIT LOWEST NUMBER

IN RECREATIONAL BOATING SAFETY HISTORY


Coast Guard Releases 2004 Statistics

WASHINGTON D.C. - The U.S. Coast Guard announced today that the total
fatalities resulting from recreational boating accidents declined to
676, the lowest on record since 1960. However, 484 boaters drowned in
2004, and 90 percent of that total were not wearing a life jacket.
While fatalities from boating accidents are decreasing, wearing a life
jacket is still key to surviving an accident.

"We're glad to see boating deaths continue to decline," commented
Captain James Hass, acting director of Coast Guard operations policy.
"Manufacturers and the U.S. Coast Guard have worked together to make
today's recreational boats safer than ever. However, most accidents
are caused by unsafe behavior on the part of boat owners and operators.
It is important for boaters to take personal responsibility for their
safety and the safety of their passengers."

The new statistics indicate a steady drop when compared with 750
fatalities reported in 2002 and 703 fatalities in 2003. The record low
numbers come despite the soaring popularity of boating, with nearly 13
million boats registered in the United States and more than 77 million
Americans expected to take to the water for recreational boating
activities each year.

The U.S. Coast Guard and its boating safety partners devote extensive
effort to safety patrols, boater awareness, and education. Although it
is estimated that more than 33,000 lives have been saved since the
Recreational Boating Safety Program began in 1971, much remains to be
done. In addition to the importance of life jackets, the 2004
statistics show that 70 percent of boat operators involved in accidents
had never taken a safe boating course and that alcohol was a factor in
at least 32 percent of reported boating accidents.

As in years past, the great majority of recreational boating deaths
remains preventable. "Even one preventable fatality is a tragedy,"
continued Hass "It means that a fun, relaxing day on the water turned
into a nightmare for a boater and his or her family and
friends-simply because someone neglected to take a few simple steps
to ensure safety."

The U.S. Coast Guard is asking all boat owners and operators to help
reduce fatalities, injuries, property damage, and associated healthcare
costs related to recreational boating accidents by taking personal
responsibility for their own safety and the safety of their passengers.
Essential steps include always wear a life jacket and require
passengers to do the same; never boat under the influence; successfully
complete a boating safety
course; and get a Vessel Safety Check annually from local U.S. Coast
Guard Auxiliary, United States Power Squadrons®, or your state boating
agency's vessel examiners. The U.S. Coast Guard reminds all boaters,
"You're in Command. Boat Responsibly!"

For more information on boating responsibly, go to www.USCGboating.org
or call the U.S. Coast Guard Infoline at1-800-368-5647.


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The U.S. Coast Guard is