The Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission (FWC), along with various other law enforcement agencies, will engage in Operation Dry Water, a campaign aimed at heightened enforcement against Boating Under the Influence (BUI) from July 4-6.
“The goal of Operation Dry Water is to decrease alcohol- and drug-related accidents and deaths on our waters,” a spokesperson from FWC told Sebastian Daily.
Since its start in 2009, FWC has been a key player in the Operation Dry Water initiative, focusing on saving lives, endorsing safe boating, ensuring adherence to laws, and promoting responsible behavior on the water throughout this period.
“Alcohol use is the leading known cause of death in recreational boating and a major factor in boating accidents,” the FWC said in a statement.
It is illegal to operate a boat while under the influence of alcohol or drugs on any water body, as they impair judgment and slow reaction times, potentially leading to severe injuries or other serious outcomes.
In Florida, operating a vessel with a blood alcohol content of .08 or higher is against the law, mirroring vehicular regulations.
During the Operation Dry Water weekend, boating safety advocates, volunteers, and law enforcement officials will work together, providing education on safe boating at marinas and on the waters across all U.S. states and territories.
The FWC and other involved law enforcement bodies are committed to identifying and deterring hazardous or impaired boaters.
Last year, FWC officers apprehended 94 impaired operators on Florida’s waterways during the campaign.
“The Fourth of July ranks among the busiest times for boating nationwide,” stated Col. Brian Smith, Director of FWC’s Division of Law Enforcement. “With over a million registered boats in Florida, our officers are dedicated to ensuring everyone’s safety on the water. We’ll be educating the public before the holiday and ramping up patrols statewide to spot any signs of impairment.”
FWC advises boaters to stay sober, wear a life jacket, and take a boating education course to guarantee a safe and enjoyable time on the water.
For further details on boating and boating laws in Florida, visit MyFWC.com/Boating. Information on boating under the influence and the Operation Dry Water campaign can be found at OperationDryWater.org.