Ohio Valley officials have heightened awareness of boating under the influence violations during holiday weekend

WHEELING, W.Va. (WTRF) — As people hit the water this week to celebrate the 4th of July, law enforcement agencies across the country will be keeping an eye out for people boating under the influence of drugs or alcohol.

From July 4 ^th through the 6 ^th the NASBLA  will be conducting their Operation Dry Water campaign. The campaign aims to raise awareness about the dangers of boating under the influence and how it could be deadly.

As part of the campaign law enforcement officers will increase their presence on the water and will be watching for any violations of BUI laws.

The West Virginia Natural Resources Police say if you plan to operate a boat at any time then there should be no alcohol, or drugs involved.

”Boating and alcohol don’t mix. So, if you’re the one operating the boat, don’t be drinking. You can sink your boat, crash your boat, you can kill someone, you know, kill yourself. It just doesn’t mix. There’s jail time, fines, and then if there’s a fatality, that’s a consequence too.”

Officer Justin Hieronimus – West Virginia Natural Resources Police

Since the campaign began, Operation Dry Water has removed over 6,000 impaired boaters from the water, preventing potential tragedies.

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