As boating traffic increases over the Fourth of July holiday weekend, the Utah Department of Natural Resources Law Enforcement Division will increase on-the-water patrols and enforcement as part of Operation Dry Water, a national campaign focused on preventing boating under the influence (BUI). From July 3–5, Natural Resource Officers will take part in the initiative in partnership with the National Association of State Boating Law Administrators (NASBLA) and the U.S. Coast Guard.
Alcohol use remains the leading known contributing factor in recreational boating fatalities. As part of Operation Dry Water, we will focus on public education, compliance checks, and enforcement efforts designed to identify and remove impaired vessel operators from the water. Boaters can expect to see an increased law enforcement presence, including targeted patrols and sobriety checks in high-traffic areas.
"The Fourth of July weekend is one of the busiest times of the year on the water," said Lieutenant Brian Kurta. "Boating under the influence is completely preventable, and it puts everyone at risk. Our officers will be actively enforcing BUI laws to help ensure a safe holiday weekend for all waterway users."
Whether operating a vessel or riding as a passenger, boating while impaired by alcohol or drugs increases the risk of incidents, injuries, and fatalities. Operating a vessel while impaired is illegal and can result in arrest, fines, and other legal consequences, as well as serious or fatal injuries.
In Utah, it is illegal to operate a vessel with a blood alcohol concentration (BAC) of 0.05 percent or higher. We urge boaters to always boat sober and utilize a life jacket when on or near water.
Operation Dry Water is a year-round national initiative dedicated to reducing alcohol- and drug-related boating incidents and fatalities through education and enforcement.
Visit operationdrywater.org or recreation.utah.gov for more information about boating under the influence.