COLDWATER, MI (WTVB) – The Branch County Sheriff’s Department will once again take part in a nationally coordinated effort during the 4th of July holiday weekend to educate boaters about the dangers of boating while under the influence of alcohol or drugs.
Sgt. Josh Vickers with the Sheriff’s Department Marine Patrol says Operation Dry Water will be conducted between July 2 and 4 and it’s aim is to reduce the number of alcohol-and drug-related incidents and fatal crashes on the water.
Vickers says there will be more heightened awareness this holiday weekend.
The Sheriff’s Office is asking boaters to enjoy themselves and help keep everyone safe by not drinking alcohol while on the water, or operating a boat after you have consumed alcohol. Use of both legal and illegal drugs also impairs judgment and reaction time and creates dangerous circumstances while boating.
The Branch County Sheriff’s Office reminds boaters to always boat sober and to wear a life jacket when on or around the water.
The risk of serious injury is the same for operators and passengers when drinking. Additionally, alcohol use by passengers presents a danger regardless of whether the operator is consuming alcohol or not.
Boaters can learn more about boating under the influence by visiting operationdrywater.org.
Operation Dry Water is coordinated nationally by the National Association of State Boating Law Administrators (NASBLA) in partnership with the U.S. Coast Guard.
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