The First State is joining an effort to promote safe boating this holiday weekend.
Operation Dry Water is an annual nationwide awareness and enforcement campaign aimed at preventing alcohol and drug-related boating accidents and fatalities.
And DNREC Fish & Wildlife Natural Resources Police say they’re increasing their presence on Delaware’s waterways this weekend.
They’ll spend time educating boaters on the dangers of operating under the influence - while also intensifying enforcement of it.
Boat operators found with blood alcohol levels at or exceeding the state and federal limit of point-oh-eight (0.08), will be arrested and could have their vessel impounded, as well as face fines and potential jail time.
According to the U.S. Coast Guard, alcohol use is a leading contributing factor to fatal boating accidents nationwide.
During last year’s Operation Dry Water, Delaware Fish & Wildlife Natural Resources Police officers made 3,056 contacts with boat operators and passengers. They also conducted 573 boardings to perform standard vessel safety equipment checks and encourage safe boating practices. Forty-six citations were issued.
