Operation Dry Water: Michigan Police, Coast Guard Stepping Up Drunk Boating Enforcement

LANSING (WWJ/AP) - Officials in Michigan are increasing their presence on the water as they remind boaters to never operate or ride in a boat while under the influence of alcohol.

The state Department of Natural Resources is backing Operation Dry Water, which is part of a national awareness and enforcement campaign. There will be heightened enforcement efforts across Michigan the weekend of June 24-26.

Lt. Tom Wanless, with the DNR, said the goal is saving lives.

"The three days of heightened enforcement take place just prior to the July Fourth holiday weekend, which is unfortunately known for drinking and boating, leading to deadly accidents," Wanless said in a statement.

Operation Dry Water's mission is to warn about the dangers of boating and drinking and to change the cultural acceptance of it.

In Michigan, it is illegal to operate a boat if the driver has a blood-alcohol content of 0.08 percent or more. Offenders could be charged with a misdemeanor punishable by fines up to $500, community service and/or imprisonment for up to 93 days, in addition to loss of boat operating privileges for at least one year. If a person is injured or killed as a result of a driver operating while under the influence, the driver can be charged with a felony, punishable by fines up to $10,000 and up to 15 years in prison.

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