SOUTHEASTERN N.C. — Thousands will head out on the water this holiday weekend, but be forewarned: the United States Coast Guard and other law enforcement agencies are cracking down on boating under the influence.
According to Petty Officer Justin Peed of the USCG, Operation Dry Water is an annual event targeting boating under the influence, an offense that spikes considerably during holiday weekends. While it might seem like an ice-cold beer and fishing on a summer day go hand in hand, if you are operating the boat, Peed suggests trying a soft drink instead.
This year Operation Dry Water is taking place from June 29 – July 1.
Under federal and state laws, operating a boat under the influence is illegal; a blood alcohol content of .08 percent or higher can result in citation or jail time.
“If an operator is determined to be boating under the influence, the Coast Guard will take the person into custody and then turn them over to appropriate state authorities for further prosecution. Penalties may include fines, jail, impounding of boats and loss of boating and/or driving privileges,” Peed said in a press release.
Boating under the influence is a “real problem” that is evident in boating communities as well. The issue has led to a significant percentage of boating deaths.
“Drunk boating is a real problem in the recreational boating community. In 2017 it was the leading factor in almost 20 percent of all boating deaths. It creates a dangerous situation on any waterway. In some ways, drinking on a waterway is more dangerous than when you are in a car. There are no seatbelts, and if you land in the water you could drown,” Peed said.
Peed offered three tips for boaters on the water including:
- Always designate a sober boat driver
- Be mindful of what’s going on around you. If you see a boat moving erratically or you think the driver might be intoxicated, call the Coast Guard on VHF Channel 16 and make a report.
- Wear a life jacket. If you get in an accident with a drunk boater, a lifejacket can save your life. You don’t wait to put your seatbelt on until after an accident; why would you wait to put a lifejacket on?
