‘Operation Dry Water’ begins this weekend

Posted: Friday, June 26, 2009 3:01 pm

The Tennessee Wildlife Re-sources Agency is teaming with the Coast Guard and the National Association of State Boating Law Administrators for “Operation Dry Water” this weekend.
TWRA boating officers will saturate in high traffic areas on reservoirs across the state. Along with the use of life jackets and other safety practices, officers want boaters to be aware of the effects and ramifications of alcohol use.
As part of “Operation Dry Water,” the TWRA will be intensifying efforts to detect and apprehend boat operators who are operating under the influence of alcohol or dangerous drugs. Operating a boat with a Blood Alcohol Content of .08 percent or higher is illegal in Tennessee, the same as operating a motor vehicle. Penalties may include fines, jail, boat impoundment and the loss of on-the-road driving privileges.
Statistics show that more than 20 percent of boating-related fatalities are a result of alcohol use. Sun, wind, noise, vibration and motion intensify the effects of alcohol, drugs and some medications. Published in The Messenger 6.26.09