GREEN BAY, WI (WTAQ) – The Green Bay Police Department has kicked off Operation Dry Water.
The three-day campaign runs from June 29 through July 1, and sends the Green Bay Police Department Marine Unit out on the water to keep people from operating a boat while under the influence.
Police are urging those who choose to celebrate the weekend on the water to do so responsibly.
Alcohol is the leading factor in recreational boating deaths.
BUI is illegal in Wisconsin.
“It is not worth the time going to court, the fine and really dealing with the whole process of boating under the influence”, says Captain Kevin Warych of the Green Bay Police Department.
Officers stress that boating under the influence can also include boating under the influence of drugs.
Penalties for a BUI can include fines, jail and the need to complete a boating safety course.
“There are many factors when it comes to boating,” said Warych.
Officers say boaters balance, vision, reaction time and all be affected, and factors like sun, wind, noise and motion can intensify the effects of alcohol and drugs.
“It is a totally different perspective and different setting and people need to understand that so they don’t make the decision to consume alcohol and drive a boat.”
Officers say passengers not operating the boat should also act responsibly.
“We want them to have a good time, but a safe time.”
