KDFWR Urges Boaters to Avoid BUI & DUI During Independence Day Weekend as Part of ‘Operation Dry Water’ Campaign

KDFWR Reminds Boaters ‘Don’t Be The U in BUI & DUI’ over Upcoming Independence Day Weekend

As we approach the Independence Day weekend, the Kentucky Department of Fish and Wildlife Resources (KDFWR), together with conservation officers and other law enforcement personnel across the state, are calling on boaters to uphold safety on the waterways by not operating under the influence of drugs or alcohol.

The awareness and enforcement initiative, known as “Operation Dry Water,” which is in its 16th year, is designed to educate the public about the dangers of BUI (Boating Under the Influence) and strives to reduce the occurrence of alcohol and drug-related incidents and fatalities. It places a national focus on detecting and dealing with BUI particularly around the July 4 holiday each year—a period that typically sees an increase in such incidents.

Increased Law Enforcement Presence

This year, from July 4th to 6th, Kentucky Fish and Wildlife Law Enforcement, Kentucky State Police, and local law enforcement agencies across the state will increase their presence around the state’s lakes and rivers to deter boating under the influence of alcohol or drugs.

According to Maj. David Marques, the Assistant Director of Law Enforcement for Kentucky Fish and Wildlife, “Operation Dry Water” is an outreach opportunity that aligns with a time when more people are likely to venture onto the water. He emphasized that law enforcement officers would be vigilant throughout the holiday, monitor boater behavior, and identify those who may display impairment from drugs or alcohol.

The ‘Don’t Be the U in BUI & DUI’ Campaign

In conjunction with other safety advocates and law enforcement agencies across the state, KDFWR’s Law Enforcement Division recently introduced the “Don’t Be the U in BUI & DUI” campaign. This campaign aims to share safety awareness messages on holidays and throughout the summer season. “Boating or driving under the influence can adversely affect boaters and those around them. We aim to keep impaired drivers off roads and waterways to ensure everyone can enjoy their summer activities and return home safely,” said Maj. Marques.

The Risks of Mixing Alcohol and Boating Activities

Drugs and alcohol can impair judgment, balance, vision, and reaction time for boat operators and passengers alike. Environmental factors such as sun, wind, noise, vibration, and motion can further exacerbate these side effects. Drugs or alcohol can also impact other water activities such as swimming, waterskiing, wakeboarding, and tubing. It’s crucial, therefore, that those participating, whether from a boat or the shore, recognize their own or others’ potential impairment and take precautions.

Alcohol and Boating Accident Statistics

Based on the U.S. Coast Guard’s 2023 Recreational Boating Statistics report, alcohol use is the leading known contributing factor in boating accidents and fatalities. Boaters can familiarize themselves with boating laws in the Kentucky Fishing and Boating Guide or visit “Operation Dry Water” online for more information.

In case of emergencies, dial 911 or contact local law enforcement agencies or the nearest Kentucky State Police post. Marine channel 16 can be used to contact a local marina.

“Operation Dry Water” is an initiative coordinated by the National Association of State Boating Law Administrators (NASBLA), in partnership with the U.S. Coast Guard and law enforcement agencies across the country. In 2023, nearly 500 law enforcement agencies and almost 8000 officers took part, resulting in 302,146 boater contacts and 717 BUI arrests over the holiday weekend.