January 29, 2010
Contact: Gabriella B. Ferraro (FWC), 772-215-9459;
David Silverstein (Super Bowl), 305-614-7553

Be smart and safe outdoors.  That's the message the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission (FWC) will promote at 2010 South Florida Super Bowl celebrations.

FWC law enforcement officers will be on hand for two of the events: the Kids Fishing Classic Jan. 30 and the Super Celebrity Fishing Classic Feb. 3.  Officers will educate participants on boating safety basics, such as wearing a life jacket, maintaining proper lookout and developing a float plan.

"I encourage all participants, experienced or inexperienced boaters, to stop and chat with our officers.  Everyone can use a refresher on boating safety.  It's a matter of personal responsibility," said FWC Chairman Rodney Barreto, who is also chairman of the South Florida Super Bowl Host Committee.

The Super Celebrity Fishing Classic will celebrate the lives of three athletes, tragically killed last year when their boat capsized in the Gulf of Mexico.  The lone survivor of the accident will be on hand at the event.  Proceeds from the event will go to the victims' families' charities of choice.

The Kids Fishing Classic promises to be a day of fun for more than 150 inner-city kids.  Some of them have never been on a boat, let alone fished.

"Kids will learn how they can help conserve nature by catching and releasing fish," Barreto said.

For more information on boating safety, visit MyFWC.com/Boating.

For more information on the South Florida Super Bowl, visit www.southfloridasuperbowl.com.

Source: http://www.myfwc.com/NEWSROOM/10/statewide/News_10_X_SuperBowlSafety.htm