Georgia Governor Brian Kemp signed a proclamation for May 17-23, 2025 to be declared Safe Boating Week. The proclamation announces the value of Georgia rivers and lakes, and encourages Georgians to spread the message of boating safety.

The proclamation acknowledged that an average of 650 people perish every year in boating-related or paddlecraft-related accidents in the United States. Over 75% of these fatalities are caused by drowning, which is preventable in many cases by wearing a life jacket. 

The proclamation encouraged Georgians to “spread the message of boating safety, urging fellow boaters to participate in boating education classes (situational awareness and rules of the road), check the weather, file for a float plan, stay sober, wear life jackets, and follow State and Coast Guard regulations.”

Georgia Rivers was named in the proclamation as a top volunteer organization that strives to ensure the safety of the boating public! 

Georgia Rivers, U.S. Army Corps of Engineers at Allatoona Lake and other Georgia partners will offer low-cost kayaking instruction at seven locations across Georgia on Saturday, May 17 to kick off National Safe Boating Week.  The Kayaking 101 classes will teach paddle techniques, review safety and rescue maneuvers, and introduce trip planning tips. All class instructors are Georgia volunteers who are nationally certified to give paddling and rescue training and are supported by experienced safety teams.

Organizations participating in National Safe Boating Week Kayaking 101 include: US Coast Guard Auxiliary, Georgia Power Company, Trust for Public Lands, Forsyth County Parks and Recreation, NOC Chattahoochee Outpost, City of Chattahoochee Hills, Moon River Kayak Tours, Middle Georgia Kayaking, Miller Kayak Trips and Training, Georgia Canoeing Association, Whitewater Express, Festive Water Paddlesports, Wildwood Outfitters, Coosa River Basin Initiative, and the instructors of ACA Georgia.

The proclamation closed saying, “boating safety knowledge and skills are important in reducing human error, improving judgement and ultimately saving lives.”

Safe Boating Week is a smart way to start the summer season, and boat safety education establishes safety habits that will make paddlesports fun for a lifetime!