Operation Dry Water will take place July 4 through 6 on waterways around the country. National, state and local law enforcement agencies are all partnering to raise awareness about the dangers of boating under the influence of alcohol and drugs. The goal is to remind boaters that impaired boating by the operator and passengers is dangerous and can cause serious injuries and fatalities.
The Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission, in collaboration with the National Association of State Boating Law Administrators and the U.S. Coast Guard, will kick off the holiday weekend with a launch event on July 3 in Destin, Fla.
“Operation Dry Water is crucial in reminding boaters that safety on the water starts with sober boating,” NASBLA chair lieutenant Curt Lewis said in a statement. “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 enjoyable experience on the water.”
Alcohol use is the leading contributing factor in recreational boating fatalities and a major factor in recreational boating incidents. During the weekend, law enforcement officers will increase their presence on waterways, engaging with boaters to educate them about the risks of impaired boating. The goal is to combine education and enforcement to significantly reduce alcohol- and drug-related boating incidents.
Since its inception, Operation Dry Water has removed 6,869 impaired operators from waterways, preventing potential tragedies. Officers have reached more than 2.8 million boaters through the annual campaign. In 2023, 488 agencies from all states and territories participated in ODW.
