Lincoln County boaters heading out for the Independence Day holiday weekend are being warned: marine law enforcement will be out in force looking for impaired operators.

The Oregon State Marine Board, in partnership with agencies across the state including the Lincoln County Sheriff’s Office Marine Team and Oregon State Police, is participating in Operation Dry Water from Friday, July 3 through Sunday, July 5. The nationally coordinated enforcement and awareness campaign aims to reduce boating accidents and fatalities linked to alcohol, drugs, and other intoxicants.

Boating Under the Influence of Intoxicants (BUII) covers alcohol as well as prescription medications, marijuana, inhalants, or any combination that impairs a person’s ability to safely operate a vessel. The risks are significantly higher on the water than on land because of sun glare, wind, wave action, and other environmental stressors. Alcohol also dehydrates the body, increasing the danger of cold-water shock and drowning if someone falls overboard, especially without a life jacket.

Penalties for a BUII conviction are serious: possible jail time, a fine of up to $6,250, and loss of boating privileges. Marine officers can obtain blood, breath, or urine samples if a boater fails field sobriety tests. Anyone who operates a boat while impaired and then trailers it from the water can also face a DUII charge on land.

“Recreational boating is a relatively safe activity when boating sober, wearing life jackets, and staying aware of the surroundings,” said Brian Paulsen, Boating Safety Program Manager for the Oregon State Marine Board. “So far this year, the common denominators for boating fatalities are not wearing a life jacket, falling overboard, and alcohol consumption.”

With the long holiday weekend approaching, popular Lincoln County boating spots, including Siletz Bay in Lincoln City, Yaquina Bay and the Port of Newport, Alsea Bay near Waldport, and Devil’s Lake, are expected to see heavy recreational use. The enhanced patrols are intended to deter impairment and keep everyone safer on the water.

Boaters who see an impaired operator or someone operating dangerously are encouraged to call 911 immediately. When reporting, provide the boat type and characteristics, number of passengers, observed behavior, nearest boat ramp or landmark, and, if possible, the registration number or letters on the bow.

For more information on Operation Dry Water, visit www.operationdrywater.org.

The Lincoln County Sheriff’s Office Marine Team also offers free vessel safety checks ahead of the weekend. Boaters can contact a marine deputy for an inspection of required safety equipment.

Plan ahead, designate a sober operator, wear life jackets, and enjoy the holiday weekend responsibly.