Page:United States Statutes at Large Volume 124.djvu/4664

 124 STAT. 4638 PROCLAMATION 8524—MAY 20, 2010 oping a family disaster plan; maintaining an emergency supply kit; se- curing homes, businesses, and belongings; and learning evacuation routes. I urge those in hurricane-threatened areas to visit www.Hurricanes.gov/Prepare to learn more about what they can do to protect themselves and their property from hurricanes. Emergency preparation resources for hurricanes and other natural disasters are also available at: www.Ready.gov. To help Americans meet the challenges of severe weather, my Admin- istration is focusing on preparedness and response—before, during, and after hurricanes. We are improving accountability and coordina- tion between all levels of government, modernizing our emergency communications, and empowering more families to prepare them- selves. Thanks to advancements in hurricane forecasting and tracking, the National Hurricane Center is working to give citizens more notice before impending storms. With the right planning and preparation, we can safeguard lives, protect property, and enhance America’s resilience to national weather emergencies. NOW, THEREFORE, I, BARACK OBAMA, President of the United States of America, by virtue of the authority vested in me by the Con- stitution and the laws of the United States, do hereby proclaim May 23 through May 29, 2010, as National Hurricane Preparedness Week. I call upon all Americans, especially those in hurricane-prone areas, to learn more about protecting themselves against hurricanes and to work together to respond to them. IN WITNESS WHEREOF, I have hereunto set my hand this twentieth day of May, in the year of our Lord two thousand ten, and of the Inde- pendence of the United States of America the two hundred and thirty- fourth. BARACK OBAMA Proclamation 8524 of May 20, 2010 National Safe Boating Week, 2010 By the President of the United States of America A Proclamation Our Nation’s waterways provide endless opportunities for family recre- ation, exercise, or moments of quiet solitude and reflection. As the weather warms and people prepare to spend time on the water, let us recommit during National Safe Boating Week to practicing safe tech- niques so boaters of all ages can enjoy this pastime. Responsible and informed behavior on board can keep boaters and pas- sengers free from harm. Wearing a Coast Guard-approved life jacket, taking a boating safety course, being aware of weather conditions, and ensuring all boats have the necessary safety equipment are all impor- tant steps Americans can take to minimize risk on the water. Those who operate boats must also take extra precautions to keep their pas- sengers safe and never boat under the influence of drugs or alcohol.