WHEREAS, Alaska is known for its beautiful lakes, rivers, and thousands of miles of coastline and Alaskans thrive in, and appreciate, the unique outdoor opportunities life in the Last Frontier provides; and
WHEREAS, residents and visitors enjoy endless opportunities for a wide variety of water-related activities including boating, fishing, swimming, and even surfing. Studies have shown that those who live near water live happier lives and aquatic-related activities promote increased physical and mental health; and
WHEREAS, water safety education plays an essential role in preventing drownings and recreational water-related injuries, and constant vigilance when recreating around water is essential for people of all ages and abilities; and
WHEREAS, swimming facilities and aquatic programs provide healthy places to learn or strengthen swimming skills, which enable Alaskans to safely enjoy the great outdoors; and
WHEREAS, obeying water safety rules is important for the protection of all Alaskans, whether utilizing a public or private pool, or enjoying one of the bodies of water that surround many Alaskan communities; and
WHEREAS, it is vital to understand the importance of communicating water safety rules to families and individuals of all ages, and to always set a good example for others while utilizing pools, swimming in a lake or river, or while using other water-related recreational gear, like kayaks, canoes, or motorized boats.
NOW THEREFORE, I, Mike Dunleavy, GOVERNOR OF THE STATE OF ALASKA, do hereby proclaim May 2020 as:
Water Safety Month
in Alaska, and encourage all Alaskans to educate themselves and our youth on techniques to safely enjoy water-related activities, and to follow safety precautions when around water.
