WHEREAS, Alaska is renowned for its beautiful lakes, rivers, and thousands of miles of coastline that all provide a wide variety of water-related activities for Alaskans and visitors to enjoy as part of the unique outdoor experience that life in the Last Frontier provides; and
WHEREAS, studies have shown that those who live near water lead happier lives, and aquatic-related activities promote increased physical and mental health through activities including boating, fishing, swimming, and surfing; and
WHEREAS, water-safety education is essential in preventing drownings and recreational water-related injuries, and constant vigilance when recreating around water is necessary to maintain the safety of people of all ages and abilities; and
WHEREAS, swimming facilities and aquatic programs provide safe places to develop or strengthen swimming skills that enable Alaskans to enjoy the great outdoors to the fullest extent; and
WHEREAS, following water safety rules is important for the protection of all Alaskans, whether utilizing a public or private pool, or when enjoying one of the bodies of water that surround many Alaskan communities; and
WHEREAS, it is vital to communicate water safety rules to families and individuals of all ages, and it is important to always set a good example for others while swimming or while using other water-related recreational gear, like kayaks, canoes, jet skis, or motorized boats.
NOW THEREFORE, I, Mike Dunleavy, GOVERNOR OF THE STATE OF ALASKA, do hereby proclaim May 2023 as:
Water Safety Month
in Alaska, and encourage all Alaskans to educate themselves and our youth on techniques to safely enjoy aquatic-related activities, and to observe safety precautions when around water.
Dated: May 1, 2023
