Coast Guard Warns Against Boating Under the Influence in Shark River and Manasquan Inlets

BELMAR, NJ - As Safe Boating Week continues, the United States Coast Guard is intensifying its efforts to educate boaters about the dangers of consuming alcohol while operating vessels in the Manasquan and Shark River Inlets. With warmer weather attracting more boaters to the water, the Coast Guard's message is clear: drinking while boating is not only dangerous but also a serious crime.

Authorities remind the public that the effects of alcohol can be magnified on water, impairing boat operators more quickly than car drivers, drink for drink. The marine environment—characterized by motion, vibration, engine noise, sun, wind, and spray—accelerates fatigue and affects judgment and coordination, which are essential for safe boating.

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The penalties for Boating Under the Influence (BUI) are severe and are intended to deter this risky behavior. Offenders face large fines, revocation of boating privileges, and significant jail time. The Coast Guard underscores that alcohol use remains the leading known contributing factor in fatal boating accidents, highlighting the critical need for sobriety on the water.

During this initiative, Coast Guard units will be actively patrolling the inlets, ready to enforce the laws against BUI. The goal is not just to punish, but to prevent accidents through awareness and enforcement.

As summer approaches, the Coast Guard hopes that heightened awareness and enforcement will encourage boaters to think twice before drinking and operating a boat, ensuring a safer boating season for everyone on the water.

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