IDNR urges sober boating through Operation Dry Water

SPRINGFIELD, Ill. (WCIA) — The Fourth of July holiday means a lot of water activities — including boating. As we progress into the warm and relaxing summer season, state officials want to remind boaters to stay sober.

As part of the annual Operation Dry Water campaign, Illinois Department of Natural Resources (IDNR) Conservation Police will be doubling down on their safety enforcements throughout the Independence Day weekend. The campaign aims to prevent alcohol and drug-related incidents and deaths on the water.

“As much fun as it is to be with friends on the water, remember it only takes a second to change your life forever,” said Lt. Curt Lewis, the state’s boating law administrator. “Save the alcohol for the shore, if at all possible, but if you do have alcohol on the boat, designate a sober operator.”

All boat occupants should also be sure to wear life jackets while on the water. Illinois law requires the availability of at least one life vest per occupant.

State law also says that while on the deck of a watercraft or in an open watercraft, no boat can be used unless an appropriately-sized, U.S. Coast Guard-approved life jacket is worn by each child below 13 years old. IDNR said those exempt from this rule include occupants enclosed in a cabin, below the top deck on a watercraft, on an anchored watercraft that is a platform for swimming or diving, or aboard a charter “passenger for hire” watercraft with a licensed captain.

Free boating safety courses are available to boaters of all ages through volunteer instructors with the IDNR. These courses are required for anyone born on or after Jan. 1, 1998 who want to drive a motorboat (with over 10 horsepower). They must earn a valid Boating Safety Certificate.

To find a schedule of available courses, visit IDNR’s website . Online boating safety courses are also available for a fee.

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