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Operation Dry Water

U.S Coast Guard

Operation Dry Water is set to begin tomorrow as state, federal, and local law enforcement continue to focus on the state’s boating while intoxicated laws and draw public attention to the hazards of boating under the influence.

Iowa Department of Natural Resources Boating Law Administrator Susan Stoker says the campaign of focused enforcement will take place June 26-28 and consists of increased patrols, check points, and administration of breath tests. “Boating is a recreational activity,” comments Stoker. “And we want people to still have fun. We also want to have a safe and sober boat operator while they’re out on the water so everyone comes home safely.”

Last year more than 71 percent of Iowa’s boating fatalities involved alcohol and Stoker explains that “many of those victims were innocent bystanders”.  She also warns that the effects of alcohol can easily be intensified when on a boat due to motion from the waves, sun exposure, and dehydration.

OPERATION DRY WATER 2014 TOP AREAS FOR BWI (BOATING WHILE INTOXICATED) ARRESTS
Mississippi River: 12
Coralville: 8
Clear Lake: 5
Des Moines River: 4
Saylorville Lake: 3
Total BWI: 41

IPR News Intern Aaron Sprengeler contributed to this post

Pat Blank is the host of All Things Considered