In 2013, there were a total of 236 boating accidents in the United States; 75 deaths resulting from these accidents were caused by alcohol use, according to the
USCG 2013 Recreational Boating Statistics. Boating under the influence (BUI) was the sixth primary contributing factor to accidents in 2013, and this year the U.S. is attempting to tackle these BUI-related accidents with a national awareness and enforcement campaign.
Law enforcement around the nation is gearing up for Operation Dry Water June 27-29. During the three-day weekend, officers will be on the lookout for those violating BUI laws.
Last year’s weekend yielded 290 BUI arrests, according to the Operation Dry Water website. Thousands of officers participate each year, keeping their eyes out for violators as well as educating boaters about the dangers of boating under the influence.
“The mission of Operation Dry Water and the law enforcement officers who participate is to reduce the number of alcohol- and drug-related deaths on the water,” says John Fetterman, National Association of State Boating Law Administrators (NASBLA) deputy executive director. “Boating should be a fun and enjoyable time spent with friends and family; we are asking that boaters make sure their voyage remains enjoyable by boating sober. Too many accidents and deaths are caused by those who choose to boat under the influence.”
For more information, visit operationdrywater.org.
