| Marine Board's Media Kit |
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| Cover Letter |
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To the Editor, Producer, and Reporter
When it comes to outdoor recreation, few places compare to the beauty of Oregon. But every year, what starts out as a day of boating fun, turns into tragedy because people threw caution to the wind in an effort to be spontaneous and care-free, in the name of “fun.” Thirteen people lost their lives in 2008. In fact, nearly 90 percent of the victims would have survived had they worn a life jacket. A simple, inexpensive device could have spared many family and friends countless hours of emotional agony.
Another contributing factor is alcohol…which removes inhibitions and impairs a person’s judgment. Alcohol is a major factor in 50 percent of recreational boating accidents statewide, and an even larger factor in other water-related drownings.
As Memorial Day weekend approaches, a story about boating safety will give your audience the reminder they need to ensure a fun, yet safe outing. Potential story angles might be:
- The effects of alcohol are intensified on the water when combined with sun glare, wind, wave action and motion of the boat. Did you know one drink on the water has roughly the same effect as three on land?
- Various types of personal flotation devices. What kind does a person wear for white water rafting vs. ocean fishing? How do you know if a life jacket fits properly?
- Drunken passengers are at higher risk for accident or injury –many people who fall overboard (leading cause of drowning) are impaired passengers.
Depending on your needs, we can provide you with additional information, electronic images, or arrange interviews and ride-alongs with local marine deputies.
For more information or interviews, please contact Ashley Massey, Public Information Officer for the Marine Board, at 503-378-2623 or ashley.massey@state.or.us.
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| For Immediate Release -Boating and Water Safety Information |
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With the great water levels for the start of the summer boating season,
Oregon State Marine Board reminds boaters to “Boat Safe, Boat Sober.”
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