The Fourth of July celebration is right around the corner and it is a popular time for boaters to get out and enjoy being on the water with family and friends. But with approximately 500 people drowning each year from recreational boating accidents, it is imperative to always boat responsibly, including wearing a life jacket, being alert and aware while on the water and obeying navigation rules.

The National Safe Boating Council (safeboatingcouncil.org) is encouraging all boaters to take the “Safe Summer Pledge” this July 4. The pledge allows boaters to share with their family and friends their dedication to boat safety and wearing a life jacket each and every time they are on the water. The pledge can be signed and shared via social networks by visiting safeboatingcampaign.com/camp-pledge.htm.

“Every year, thousands of boaters enjoy being out on the water during July 4 celebrations, and for some people, it may be the only time they get on a boat the entire summer,” said Virgil Chambers, executive director of the National Safe Boating Council. “We encourage boaters to share their commitment to safe boating and the ‘Wear It!’ campaign by taking the pledge. It is important to follow boat safety and wear a life jacket each and every time you are on the water.”

In addition, the NSBC is looking for safe summer boating stories through Labor Day weekend. Whether silly or serious, boaters can submit personal stories of safety and be entered for a chance to win a summer prize package. Stories may be submitted by email at outreach@safeboatingcouncil.org or online by visiting safeboatingcampaign.com. Select the Resources tab, then click Share Your Story on the right.

U.S. Coast Guard statistics show that drowning was the reported cause of death in three-fourths of recreational boating fatalities in 2011, and that 84 percent of those who drowned were not wearing life jackets. That’s why boating safety advocates continue to push for increased and consistent life jacket wear on the water.

“A life jacket is one of the easiest ways you can save your life in case of emergency,” continued Chambers. “With the variety of today’s comfortable, stylish life jackets for any recreational water activity, there’s no excuse not to ‘Wear It!’ this summer.”

The North American Safe Boating Campaign unites the efforts of a wide variety of boating safety advocates, including NASBLA, the Canadian Safe Boating Council and the many members of the NSBC. The campaign is produced under a grant from the Sports Fish Restoration and Boating Trust Fund, administered by the U.S. Coast Guard. Partners hold local events, teach classes, distribute educational materials and perform free Vessel Safety Checks, among other activities.

The NSBC is the foremost coalition for the advancement and promotion of safer boating through education, outreach and training. The NSBC accomplishes this mission by promoting outreach and research initiatives that support boating education and safety awareness; improving the professional development of boating safety educators through training; and developing and recognizing outstanding boating safety programs. To learn more about NSBC and its programs, visit SafeBoatingCouncil.org.