Boaters be aware of increased July 4 law enforcement

The Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources (DNR) will join law enforcement agencies nationwide for Operation Dry Water, an annual campaign to prevent boating while impaired to keep waters safe for all during the July 4-6 holiday weekend.

Boating under the influence is illegal in Wisconsin. Impairment from alcohol or drugs significantly increases the risk of incidents, injuries and fatalities. Nationally, alcohol continues to be the leading known contributing factor in recreational boater fatalities and a significant cause of boating incidents, according to the most recent U.S. Coast Guard Recreational Boating Statistics.

DNR conservation wardens and local law enforcement will be on the state’s lakes and rivers for Operation Dry Water, sharing education about safe boating while watching for operators who may be impaired or causing safety problems for themselves and others.

Operation Dry Water promotes a zero-tolerance policy for alcohol on the water, meaning they encourage everyone on the boat — not just the operator — to remain sober. Research shows that impairment also poses risks to passengers.

“We want everyone to enjoy Wisconsin’s beautiful waterways this holiday weekend, but safety must come first,” said Major April Dombrowski, director of the DNR's Recreational Safety and Outdoor Skills Bureau.

Follow these safety tips to safely boat with family and friends: Sign up now to take an online boater education course. (https://dnr.wisconsin.gov/Education/OutdoorSkills/ safetyEducation).

Always wear a properly fitted and fastened life jacket when on or near the water. A life jacket will keep you on top of the water if you walk off an unexpected drop-off, a wave or current overpowers you or you fall out of a boat.

Enjoy the waters sober and know your limits. Alcohol blurs a person's judgment, reaction time and abilities.

River shorelines and sandbars pose unseen dangers. Higher, fast-moving water can tax an individual's boating, paddling and swimming skills.

Keep an eye on the weather and always tell someone where you are going.

Create a float plan and tell people when and where you plan to depart and return before going for a float or paddle.

Operation Dry Water is coordinated by the National Association of State Boating Law Administrators in cooperation with law enforcement agencies nationwide.

Learn more about the campaign at https://community. nasbla.org/operationdrywater/home.