“Operation Dry Water” campaign in full swing this holiday weekend

Area Sheriff’s Offices are joining the U.S. Coast Guard, and Wisconsin DNR in the annual Operation Dry Water campaign, a coordinated campaign to educate boaters about the dangers of boating under the influence of alcohol or drugs.

During the 3 day campaign, July 4th -6th, boaters will see an increase in outreach, education and enforcement surrounding boating under the influence.

In a press release from the sheriffs office, they say alcohol use continues to be the leading known contributing factor in recreational boater deaths and boating accidents. The mission of Operation Dry Water is to reduce the number of alcohol and drug-related incidents and fatalities on the water. The Fond du Lac County Sheriff’s Office will be out educating boaters on ways to stay safe while on the water and taking enforcement action when necessary.

Just like a vehicle on the road, It’s illegal to operate a recreational vessel on water with a blood alcohol concentration of .08 or higher or with a detectable amount of a restricted controlled substance in your system.