Police take part in "Operation Dry Water"

There will be more cops on the water in Florida this weekend as part of a nationwide effort to stop drink boating called “Operation Dry Water." The Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission, along with the U.S. Coast Guard and state and local law enforcement agencies, are participating in the effort aimed at reducing boating under the influence and the number of alcohol-related accidents and fatalities. More than 20 percent of fatal boating accidents are a result of alcohol use. You can anticipate increased patrols on coastal and inland waters this weekend as well as officers at boat ramps and docks educating the public about other aspects of safe boating, which includes not only operating a vessel sober, but having all the required safety equipment and wearing a life jacket all of the time while on the water. Boating under the influence includes not only the effects of drinking alcohol, but also the effects that drugs, prescribed and otherwise, may cause. Being under the influence of alcohol or drugs impairs a boat operator's vision and reaction time. Sun, wind, fatigue and other conditions can intensify the effects alcohol or drugs have on a boater.