The U.S. Coast Guard, in partnership with the National Association of State Boating Law Administrators, as well as federal, state and local law enforcement agencies are preparing for Operation Dry Water 2021 to commence in Alaska from now through the Independence Day holiday weekend. Boaters can expect to see increased law enforcement presence on Kenai Peninsula waters. Alaska suffered 24 recreational boating fatalities in 2020–the highest number of deaths on the water in the last five years. Of those 24 lost lives, six were alcohol related.
Operation Dry Water is a national campaign focused on reducing the number of alcohol and drug-related incidents while fostering a stronger, more visible deterrent to alcohol and drug use on the water. The operation focuses on spreading awareness of the danger of boating under the influence as well as changing cultural acceptance of boating while intoxicated.
Capt. Jason Brennell, chief of enforcement for the Coast Guard 17th District in Juneau:
“Operating a vessel while under the influence of alcohol or drugs poses a serious risk to the safety of the boating public. Our cutter and small boat crews will be vigilantly patrolling Alaskan waters over the holiday weekend and throughout the summer to encourage safe boating habits and enforce regulations.”
Alcohol continues to be the leading known contributing factor in fatal boating accidents. In 2020, alcohol accounted for over 100 deaths, roughly 18% of total fatalities. Operating a boat with a blood alcohol content of .08 or higher is against federal law and most state laws. Alcohol can impair a boater’s judgment, balance, vision and reaction time. It can also increase fatigue and susceptibility to the effects of cold-water immersion. Sun, wind, noise, vibration, and motion intensify the side effects of alcohol, drugs, and some medications. Impairment can be even more dangerous for boaters than for drivers.
Severe penalties are in store for people who boat under the influence. If a boat operator is BUI, the voyage may be terminated, the boat may be impounded and the operator may be arrested. Penalties can include fines, jail, loss of boating privileges and even loss of driving privileges.
For more details on the campaign, click here.
