The figures are not all that accurrate at the USCG but they are working
on them and should be able to provide more detailed data soon. At the
most recent meeting the following figures were presented.

In the summer of 2005 alone, a brief and very limited media (90 days)
search, uncovered 58 exposed recreational boat propeller strikes:

34% were fatal
14% led to amputation of a limb
42% were severe lacerations requiring hospitalization for extended
periods.

(Note when we speak of "severe lacerations" from a propeller strike
we mean severe life altering/changing lacerations)

The above demonstrates an extraordinary result but unfortunately the
standard consequences, common to most grievous of boating accidents.
Worst of all we are finding far too many children from age 3-18
represented in these horrifying statistics. Similar to the automotive
industry forty years ago, the recreational boating manufactures argue
wrongly, safety is the responsibility of the operator. We believe
safety can be designed into a product and that safety is not an option,
it should be mandated. Safety does sale!

RT