Encl (2) to COMDTINST 16010.8
Goal S5:
Eliminate recreational boating fatalities.
Target: Reduce recreational boating fatalities from the FY97 baseline of
819 fatalities to 720 fatalities or less.
Analysis and Evaluation
Recreational boating fatalities have been decreasing over the long term, however
fatalities have not yet been consistently reduced below our target of 720. Increased
personal floatation device use has contributed to the long-term reduction: drownings
have dropped from 1,604 in 1973 to 586 in 1997. Of those 586, 521 were not wearing life
vests. Further increases in personal floatation device use should continue to drive
fatalities downward below 720. The Coast Guard is conducting an evaluation of the
relationship between PFD usage rates and changes in wearability as the result of design
improvements. This will assist in further design improvements to boost usage.
Prevention efforts and an active Coast Guard Auxiliary education program will assist in
reducing situations where boaters are at risk. Continued rescue improvement will save
more boaters that do find themselves in trouble.