Kentucky Fish and Wildlife urges people to remain safe while boating

FRANKFORT, Ky. (WBKO) - With America’s birthday approaching, Kentucky Department of Fish and Wildlife Resources game wardens will be increasing patrols across the state to help keep the state waterways safe.

The effort is in conjunction with “Operation Dry Water,” a national campaign that was designed to educate the public about the dangers of boating under the influence (BUI). The campaign brings focus to BUI detection and enforcement, aiming to reduce the number of alcohol- and drug-related incidents and fatalities around the July 4 holiday each year.

“Vessel operators decide whether to drink alcohol and boat under the influence, and many times the decision to do so has deadly results,” said Maj. David Marques, an assistant director of Law Enforcement for Kentucky Fish and Wildlife. “Our game wardens will be out on the water throughout the holiday to observe for those who may show impairment not just from alcohol but from drugs as well.”

According to Kentucky Fish and Wildlife, alcohol and drugs can affect judgment, balance, vision, and reaction time for boat operators and passengers alike. Environmental stressors such as sun, wind, noise, vibration, and motion may intensify the side effects of alcohol, drugs, and medications, and may increase fatigue.

Last year, more than 7,000 officers from 485 local, state, and federal agencies participated in “Operation Dry Water.” Over the three days, law enforcement officers contacted 296,190 boaters, made 584 BUI arrests, and issued 43,554 citations and warnings for safety violations.

Boaters can learn more about boating laws in the Kentucky Fishing and Boating Guide, the regulations summary booklet, available online at fw.ky.gov and wherever licenses are sold, or at “Operation Dry Water.”

For emergencies, dial 911. For non-emergency assistance, call 800-25-ALERT (800-252-5378) or contact a local law enforcement agency or the nearest Kentucky State Police post. Marine channel 16 can be used to contact a local marina.