As Minnesotans gear up for water activities during the Fourth of July holiday, the Minnesota Department of Natural Resources (DNR) reminds boaters to prioritize safety. Operation Dry Water, a nationwide campaign running from July 4-6, highlights the dangers of boating under the influence of alcohol or drugs.
BWI (Boating While Intoxicated) is a leading cause of boating accidents and fatalities. Lt. Eric Sullivan of the DNR’s Marine Unit stresses, “If you’re caught boating under the influence, you will go to jail. It endangers everyone on the water.” Minnesota’s strong BWI laws ensure that anyone convicted of drinking and driving loses their privilege to operate any vehicle.
In addition to staying sober, the DNR urges everyone on a boat to wear a life jacket, as many fatalities occur when people fall overboard without one. Recent rainfall has also caused high water levels in rivers, making them particularly dangerous. Boaters and paddlers are advised to stay off these waterways until conditions improve.