The Washington State Parks Boating Program will participate in the nationally coordinated Operation Dry Water event from June 29 to July 1.
The operation aims to combat boating under the influence, also known as BUI.
“Operating a boat while under the influence puts everyone on the water at risk,” said Wade Alonzo, state parks boating law administrator, in a statement. “Factors such as wind, sun, noise and a boat’s rocking movement amplify the effects of alcohol and drugs. Balance, vision, reaction time and decision-making skills decrease and the likelihood of an accident increases.”
Last year in Washington, 57 deaths were attributed to boating under the influence, according to state parks.
It is illegal in Washington to use a substance that impairs a person’s ability to use a boat, including kayaks, canoes, rowboats and inflatable rafts. BUI is a gross misdemeanor, as is DUI.
“Boat operators need to remember that other boaters and paddlers on the water depend on them to be alert and in control of their vessel at all times,” Alonzo said.
More information is available at boatsober.org.
