SAULT STE. MARIE, Mich. — U.S. Coast Guard crews across the Great Lakes are stepping up patrols this Fourth of July weekend as part of Operation Dry Water, a national effort to enforce boating under the influence (BUI) laws.
Alcohol is the leading factor in fatal boating accidents, and officials are urging boaters to stay sober while on the water. The heightened patrols will be carried out in coordination with local and state law enforcement agencies across the region.
“Sector Northern Great Lakes is proud to be coordinating with our local and state partners to emphasize the importance of sober boating and keep our waterways safe,” said Capt. Jim Bendle, commander of Coast Guard Sector Northern Great Lakes. “Boating under the influence of alcohol poses a serious risk not only to the safety of a vessel operator and their passengers but also to everyone else on the water; boat sober so everyone gets home safe.”
The Coast Guard reminds the public that alcohol can impair judgment, balance, vision, and reaction time—key faculties needed for safe operation of any watercraft. Boating while intoxicated is not only dangerous, it is also a crime.
Operation Dry Water is part of a nationwide initiative aimed at reducing BUI-related incidents and fatalities during one of the busiest boating weekends of the year.
