Lake County Gazette

The Lake County Sheriff's Office will participate in the annual Operation Dry Water campaign to reduce alcohol and drug-related incidents and fatalities on the water. The campaign runs from July 4-8.

According to a press release from the Lake County Sheriff's Office, the national effort aims to intensify boater outreach, education, and coordinated enforcement against boating under the influence. Alcohol use remains the leading known contributing factor in recreational boater deaths and is a significant contributor to boating incidents. The use of legal and illegal drugs impairs reaction time and judgment, posing substantial risks while on the water. Law enforcement officers across the nation removed 717 impaired operators from waterways during Operation Dry Water weekend in 2023.

The Sheriff's Office emphasized the importance of wearing a life jacket, being courteous, and remaining sober while on the water. "Alcohol intake also poses a danger when consumed by passengers," stated the press release. "Boating sober ensures everyone's safety on the nation's waterways."

The Lake County Sheriff's Office encouraged individuals to learn more about boating under the influence at operationdrywater.org. The campaign is coordinated by the National Association of State Boating Law Administrators in partnership with the U.S. Coast Guard.