BUI Enforcement to Increase July 4-6

Operation Dry Wateris a year-round boating under the influence awareness and enforcement campaign.

Federal, state, and local law-enforcement agencies across the country will be coordinating and increasing their efforts to thwart impaired boating during the 4^th of July weekend as part of the annual Operation Dry Water. Held July 4-6, ODW sees an increase in BUI enforcement, as well as increased messaging and awareness about the dangers of boating under the influence of drugs or alcohol.

“Operation Dry Water” is crucial in reminding boaters that safety on the water starts with sober boating,” said Curt Lewis, Chair Lieutenant with the National Association of State Boating Law Administrators (NASBLA). “Operating a boat while impaired is dangerous and can have fatal consequences. It’s essential for both operators and passengers to stay sober to ensure a safe and enjoyable experience on the water.”

Alcohol use is the leading contributing factor in recreational boater fatalities and a leading factor in recreational boating incidents, according to Coast Guard statistics.

Since its inception in 2009, Operation Dry Water has removed 6,869 impaired boat operators from the nation’s waterways. Law-enforcement officers have also reached over 2.8 million boaters through the annual three-day campaign. Last year, 488 agencies from all states and territories participated in ODW.