The Ohio Department of Natural Resources is urging all boaters to be safe this summer, ahead of the Fourth of July weekend, by boating sober. ODNR is part of Operation Dry Water, a nationwide campaign focusing on educating boaters about the dangers of boating under the influence (BUI).
“Ohio’s lakes and rivers are perfect places to enjoy time with friends and family, but safety must always come first,” said Cindy Bellar, ODNR Boating Law Administrator. “Boating under the influence puts everyone at risk. That’s why we continue to push for smart choices like boating sober, wearing a life jacket, and taking a boater education course. We want every trip on the water to be a safe one.”
Operation Dry Water is a year-long campaign in all 50 states and U.S. territories that includes an increase in patrols and outreach over the Fourth of July weekend to remind boaters about the dangers of impaired operation. Boating under the influence remains the leading factor in recreational boating fatalities. During last year’s Fourth of July weekend, law enforcement officers nationwide contacted 97,649 vessels and 296,190 boaters, made 584 BUI arrests, and issued 43,554 citations and warnings for safety violations.
ODNR reminds Ohioans that impairment isn’t just about alcohol; drugs can also affect coordination and judgment, increasing the likelihood of accidents. Even passengers under the influence can cause distractions or fall overboard, putting themselves and others in danger.
Throughout the holiday weekend, ODNR Natural Resources Officers and 21 additional local and federal agencies in Ohio will be out on the water, visiting marinas, and talking with boaters about safety. The agency’s goal is to educate the public, encourage responsible boating, and take unsafe operators off the water.
Tips for a safer boating experience:
- Always boat sober.
- Designate a sober operator.
- Always wear a life jacket.
- If you are operating a boat, know Ohio’s boating laws and take a safety course.
- The Ohio Boating Education Course (OBEC) is a requirement for anyone operating a boat with more than 10 horsepower.
Operation Dry Water is coordinated nationally by the National Association of State Boating Law Administrators (NASBLA) in partnership with the U.S. Coast Guard. To learn more, visit operationdrywater.org.
The ODNR Division of Parks and Watercraft provides exceptional outdoor recreation and boating opportunities by balancing outstanding customer service, education, and conservation of Ohio’s 76 state parks and waterways.
ODNR ensures a balance between the wise use and protection of our natural resources for the benefit of all. Visit the ODNR website at ohiodnr.gov.
