Nature conservation police conduct “Operation Dry Water” to combat boating under the influence of alcohol

ANNAPOLIS, Maryland. – This holiday weekend, Maryland Natural Resources Police (NRP) expects more boaters on the water and, as a result, an increase in boating accidents and fatalities.

Due to high traffic volumes during the Fourth of July holiday, this is statistically one of the most dangerous times on Maryland’s waterways. Boating under the influence of alcohol or drugs remains a major problem not only in Maryland, but nationwide. In response, NRP, in partnership with the National Association of State Boating Law Administrators, will once again participate in the national Operation Dry Water, which includes increased awareness and enforcement of regulations from July 4-6.

“The Fourth of July weekend is the busiest boating holiday of the year,” said Col. Orlando Lilly of the Natural Resources Police. “The NRP presence on the water will be significant, with saturation patrols in nearly every county in the state. Our goal is to keep everyone on the water safe, and our involvement in Operation Dry Water gives us the opportunity to educate boaters about the dangers of drinking and driving, and to remove unsafe and impaired boaters from our waterways when necessary.”

Alcohol consumption is the leading known factor in fatal boating accidents, and more than 90 percent of fatal boating accident victims in Maryland over the past five years were not wearing a life jacket.

During this time of heightened awareness and enforcement, NRP will prioritize educating boaters on safe behaviors, including the importance of sober boating. Boaters should expect increased patrols and vessel inspections to ensure the safety of people on the water.

NRP advises boaters that the best way to enjoy a safe holiday weekend on the water is to stay sober – always have a “sober skipper” on board – and wear a life jacket at all times.

In Maryland, a person convicted of operating a boat on Maryland waters while under the influence of alcohol, narcotics, drugs, or barbiturates can face up to one year in prison and revocation of his or her boating license.

For more information about boating safety and regulations in Maryland, as well as boating accident statistics in Maryland, visit dnr.maryland.gov/nrp.

Related