Just in time for the summer season, the US Coast Guard Auxiliary Guam Flotilla 140-02-24 kicked off National Safe Boating Week with their annual NSBW Showcase Saturday at the Guam Premier Outlet.

National Safe Boating Week aims to bring awareness and promote safe boating practices.

“We live on an island, surrounded by water. We should have a general understanding of boating safety to prevent drownings and accidents in the waters,” said Guam Flotilla staff officer Fred Alig.

“Most people go out in the summer, in boats and they become accustomed to being around the water,” added Commander Robert A Vasquez.

Vasquez said that nationally, 83% of drownings could've been prevented if people wore life vests while out in the water.

“The important thing is to be prepared while you’re out in the ocean because if you’re not prepared, and if you don’t have your lifevest, how are we going to find you? You’re going to sink in the water,” said Vasquez. “One life loss is one to many here in our island.”

The event started with a proclamation signing by Governor Lou Leon Guerrero and Lt Governor Josh Tenorio followed by a Legislative Resolution presentation from Guam’s 37th Legislature Vice Speaker Tina Muna Barnes

This is the first in-person event the Auxiliary Guam Flotilla had since the pandemic.

National Safe Boating Week will continue until May 26.