Missouri State Water Patrol to participate in national effort to reduce boating while intoxicated incidents and raise safety

The Missouri State Water Patrol announces it will participate in a safe boating campaign that spans virtually every U.S. state and territory.  "Operation Dry Water" is spearheaded by the National Association of State Boating Law Administrators and aims to raise awareness and reduce the incidence boating while intoxicated.

The campaign will be conducted June 25 - 27.  The Water Patrol will be conducting multiple check points and saturation patrols on lakes and rivers throughout Missouri during the June 25-27 weekend.  Nationally, alcohol and drug impairment is a contributing factor in more than one-fifth of all boating fatality accidents.

Boaters that come across a checkpoint should be prepared to be stopped as part of this effort.  Officers will make brief contact with the operator and perform a basic safety check of the boat's equipment.  If the officer suspects an operator is under the influence of intoxicants, the operator will be asked to submit to a field sobriety test.  All efforts will be made to keep the process as brief as possible and to ensure that traffic does not back up.  The Missouri State Water Patrol appreciates the public's cooperation.

The Missouri State Water Patrol reminds everyone to "boat smart."  If alcohol will be included as part of your next excursion, be sure to designate a sober captain.