Press Release

"Unfortunately, many adults don't realize that an improperly fitting lifejacket is not much safer than wearing no lifejacket at all," stated Craig Dixon, director of marketing for US Marine, manufacturer of Bayliner boats. "Through this program, we can build lifejacket safety awareness and help save lives through education."

Through the program, parents can bring their children, from infants through age 12, and their children's lifejackets to scheduled dealer-events for a fitting and inspection, performed by a trained representative from the United States Power Squadrons(R) (U.S.P.S.). Lifejackets will be inspected to ensure they meet the following safety criteria: proper fit, are United States Coast Guard (U.S.C.G.) approved and are in good working condition. Jackets that do not fit properly or are deemed unsafe may be exchanged at no cost.

West Marine and Stearns Manufacturing donated new lifejackets to the program. "Wearing appropriate PFDs (personal flotation device) is a vital element in boating safety, especially for children, and West Marine and Stearns Manufacturing are excited to be co-sponsoring such an important program," stated Gail Jones, senior promotions manager for West Marine.

"Children tend to panic when they fall into the water unexpectedly. It is important that parents are informed of the importance of wearing a proper fitting PFD, and equally important that their children get used to wearing a lifejacket in the water so that they know it will save them," stated Mary Snyder, marketing manager at Stearns.

The first Stay Safe for L.I.F.E. event will take place at Islander Boat Center in New York on January 19, from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. The program will be held at select dealer sponsored events throughout the United States through May 30, 2002, and will be featured during Safe Boating Week, May 19-25.

"We'd like to thank West Marine and Stearns Manufacturing for their generous donation of lifejackets and the United States Power Squadrons for donating their time to perform the inspections. Their contributions helped make this program possible, which will draw attention to safe family boating," expressed Dixon.

Bayliner Marine Corporation is an affiliate of US Marine. Part of Brunswick Corporation, US Marine manufactures quality fiberglass boats from 16-59 feet, and has provided the boating community exceptional value for almost five decades. Headquartered in Lake Forest, Ill., Brunswick Corporation is a manufacturer and marketer of leading consumer brands, including Mercury and Mariner outboard engines; Mercury MerCruiser sterndrives and inboard engines; Sea Ray, Bayliner, Maxum, Hatteras and Sealine pleasure boats; Baja high-performance boats; Boston Whaler and Trophy offshore fishing boats; Princecraft fishing, deck and pontoon boats; Life Fitness, Hammer Strength and ParaBody fitness equipment; Brunswick bowling centers, equipment and consumer products; and Brunswick billiards tables.