The Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources (DNR) will team up with law enforcement agencies across the country for Operation Dry Water, an annual campaign to prevent boating under the influence. The initiative runs July 4–6, a peak time for boating activity.
A national kickoff media event will be held on Wednesday, July 2 at 10:30 a.m. at South Bay Marina in Green Bay. Local, state, and national boating law enforcement officials will highlight the dangers of impaired boating and urge the public to stay sober on the water. The event will also be streamed live on the Operation Dry Water Facebook page.
Boating under the influence is illegal in Wisconsin, and the consequences can be deadly. Alcohol remains the leading known factor in recreational boater fatalities nationwide.
DNR conservation wardens and local officers will patrol Wisconsin’s lakes and rivers during the holiday weekend, enforcing a zero-tolerance policy and educating boaters about safety.
Major April Dombrowski of the DNR says, “We want everyone to enjoy Wisconsin’s beautiful waterways this holiday weekend, but safety must come first.”
Boating Safety Tips:
Take an online boater education course.
Always wear a life jacket.
Stay sober on the water.
Be aware of fast-moving currents and hidden hazards.
Check the weather and share your float plan with someone before heading out.
Operation Dry Water is coordinated by the National Association of State Boating Law Administrators.
For more information, visit the Operation Dry Water website.
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