Boaters can expect to see many officers with the N.C. Wildlife Resources Commission out on the waterways this weekend.
Labor Day will conclude the N.C. Wildlife Resource Commission’s multi-agency campaign to maintain boating safety by targeting boat operators who drink and drive, according to the website. The N.C. State Highway Patrol will be watching the roads for motorists who do the same.
The “On the Road, On the Water, Don’t Drink and Drive” campaign is a combined effort to ensure that everyone can travel safely on the highways and waterways.
According to state law, boat operators can be charged with boating while impaired if their blood alcohol concentration is .08 or higher, or if they are impaired by alcohol or drugs. The same applies to drivers on the road.
Boat violators can receive a maximum fine of $1,000 and possible jail time, according to the wildlife resources commission. There are more than 200 sworn full-time wildlife officers across the state who are patrolling coastal waterways, rivers and lakes.
Every boat operator is responsible for implementing the right actions to avoid an accident out on the water. Boating accidents with physical property damage in excess of $2,000, or involving the loss of live or injury must be reported to the N.C. Wildlife Resources Commission. Boaters can call the 24-hour, toll-free number at (800) 662-7137.
Children under the age of 13 are required to wear an approved life jacket while underway and life jackets are required on boats at all times. Boating classes are offered by the wildlife officers across the state.
More information can be found at the N.C. Wildlife Resources Commission website.
