The Washington Department of Health lists all the beach areas that are closed for shellfish harvesting because of water pollution. There are 24,000 acres closed, and not one area is related to boat discharges. They are all upland sources. This made the way possible to permit live aboard boaters in state leased lands used as marinas. The national safety statistics appear to reflect the same results as those that we experience.
Most fatalities are in lakes and rivers, and in small boats.
Education is always directed to areas that have the lowest rate of fatalities in this state. In several other states all boats are registered, and so controls and statistical ratios are far more favorable to their boaters. No age limits are indicated. Education Bills may not pass this year - again. Safety appears to be an emotional subject in the legislature.