Operation Dry Water boating enforcement weekend begins Friday

June 24-26, conservation officers focus efforts on boaters under the influence.
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Statewide DNR News

June 22, 2016

Contact: Sgt. Al Bavarskas, 313-396-6867

Operation Dry Water heightened boating enforcement weekend begins Friday

The Operation Dry Water heightened enforcement weekend for boaters, June 24-26, begins Friday with Michigan Department of Natural Resources conservation officers conducting extra boat patrols on the Great Lakes, inland lakes and rivers.

“Operating a motorboat under the influence of alcohol or controlled substances is illegal and dangerous,” said Lt. Tom Wanless, state boating law administrator and supervisor of the DNR Law Enforcement Division’s recreational safety, education and enforcement section.

In an effort to prevent boating-related injuries and deaths, the DNR is participating in the national Operation Dry Water campaign, a yearlong effort to raise awareness among recreational boaters about the dangers of boating under the influence.

“Conservation officers, along with other law enforcement officers across the state, will be focusing their efforts on all illegal boating activity, with a concentrated effort on drunk boating,” Wanless said. “Our goal is to save lives, and this is one way in which we can achieve that goal.”

Michigan conservation officers also caution passengers to stay sober while boating. Intoxication can cause passengers to slip or fall overboard and can lead to other dangerous accidents. Studies show that passengers are 10 times more likely to fall overboard when they have consumed alcohol. In addition, alcohol consumption can increase fatigue and susceptibility to the effects of cold-water immersion.

In addition to staying away from alcohol and other controlled substances - including certain medications - while boating, Michigan conservation officers also offer these safety tips:

Wear a life jacket. More than 80 percent of drowning accidents in the United States are due to people not wearing their life jackets.

Make sure the boat is properly equipped and equipment is in good working order. In addition to all legally required equipment, such as life jackets and fire extinguishers, always carry additional items such as a first-aid kit, nautical charts and an anchor. Make sure navigation lights are working properly. Being on the water is not the time for a breakdown or emergency.

File a float plan. Always let a family member or friend on shore know the “who, what, when and where” of your trip. Let them know when you are expected to be back. Give them phone numbers for the local emergency dispatch center and U.S. Coast Guard in the event you don't return when expected.

Maintain a sharp lookout. Stay alert for other boats, swimmers, skiers and objects in the water. This is especially true when operating in crowded waterways, at night and during conditions of restricted visibility.

Carry a marine radio or cell phone. Be prepared to call for help in case you are involved in an accident, your boat becomes disabled or you otherwise need assistance. Program the phone numbers for the local emergency dispatch center and U.S. Coast Guard in your cell phone. Make sure your cell phone is fully charged, but be aware that there are often gaps in coverage on the water.

Pack sunscreen, bottled water and a blanket or umbrella. In addition to sunscreen, you’ll need a blanket or umbrella to protect you from the hot sun. Bring extra bottled water, more than you’ll need, in case of an emergency.

"We also recommend a boating safety course for anyone who plans on taking to the water in a boat or on a personal watercraft," said Sgt. Al Bavarskas, marine specialist with the DNR Law Enforcement Division's recreational safety, education and enforcement section. "Boating safety classes are offered at different locations around the state and online, making it convenient and affordable."

For more information on boating safety, including who is required to take a boating safety class, go to www.michigan.gov/boating.

To learn more about boating rules and regulations in Michigan to help ensure a safe and enjoyable boating season, visit www.michigan.gov/boating and click on Rules and Regulations. For additional information on safe boating, visit the U.S. Coast Guard's Boating Safety Resource Center at www.uscgboating.org.

Operation Dry Water was launched in 2009 by the National Association of State Boating Law Administrators in partnership with the United States Coast Guard. The Michigan DNR is a participating agency. View a full list of participating agencies in Michigan and the nation.

Michigan conservation officers are fully commissioned state peace officers who provide natural resources protection, ensure recreational safety and protect citizens by providing general law enforcement duties and lifesaving operations in the communities they serve. Learn more about Michigan conservation officers at www.michigan.gov/conservationofficers.


The Michigan Department of Natural Resources is committed to the conservation, protection, management, use and enjoyment of the state’s natural and cultural resources for current and future generations. For more information, go to www.michigan.gov/dnr.

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