The Coast Guard will work with state, local and federal agencies to step up boating under the influence enforcement during Operation Dry Water, July 1-3.
“The data shows alcohol-related accidents after Operation Dry Water weekend are drastically reduced compared to those weeks before,” Brian Moore, a specialist in the Coast Guard’s Boating Safety Division, said in a statement. “Our hope is Coast Guard units will see the long-term benefit of accident and fatality reduction, and conduct their own boating under the influence campaigns.”
Alcohol continued to be the leading contributor in fatal boating accidents in 2022, accounting for more than 100 deaths, or 16% of total fatalities. During last year’s Operation Dry Water, more than 7,800 law enforcement officers made 749 BUI arrests, and handed out 11,869 citations and 33,198 warnings for other safety violations.
The Boating Safety Division coordinates Operation Dry Water in partnership with the National Association of State Boating Law Administrators and other members of the boating safety community.
Coast Guard units are encouraged to participate by partnering with state boating law administrators and local law enforcement agencies.
