Indiana DNR: 'Operation Dry Water' Targets Impaired Boaters July 5-7

Monday, July 1, 2019 at 10:28 AM

According to the U.S. Coast Guard, there were 112 deaths caused by impaired boaters in 2017.

Photo via www.operationdrywater.com.

(Indianapolis, Ind.) – If you are hitting the water for the 4th of July weekend, make sure you have a sober driver.

The Indiana DNR Division of Law Enforcement says Operation Dry Water will be in heightened effect July 5-7.

Boaters can expect to see an overall increase in Indiana Conservation Officer patrols, both on the water and at recreational boating checkpoints, to remove dangerous and impaired boaters from the waterways.

“Alcohol use can impair a boater’s judgement, balance, vision and reaction time,” said Lt. Kenton Turner, Indiana boating law administrator. “Every year, we see boating accidents and tragedies that could have been avoided, had alcohol or drug use not been a factor.”

Operating a vessel under the influence of alcohol or drugs is illegal on all bodies of water and can lead to serious injuries and consequences. In Indiana, it is illegal to operate a vessel with a BAC level of .08 or higher.

Indiana Conservation Officers remind boaters to always boat sober and wear a life jacket when on the water.

For more information, visit www.operationdrywater.org.