Courtesy Photo The Coast Guard is encouraging boater safety over the Fourth of July holiday weekend.

Coast Guard and local law enforcement crews across the Great Lakes are scheduled to increase the number of boating safety patrols over the Fourth of July weekend as part of Operation Dry Water, a nationwide initiative focused on enforcing laws against boating under the influence (BUI).

Alcohol is the leading contributing factor in fatal boating accidents. Boating sober is one way to make the Great Lakes safer for everyone on the water.

Boating is a popular way to celebrate the holidays; however, it is important to remember boating laws. Not only is boating under the influence irresponsible, it’s illegal. Alcohol use can impair a boater’s judgment, balance, vision and reaction time, which is crucial when operating a vessel.

“Sector Northern Great Lakes is proud to be coordinating with our local and state partners to emphasize the importance of sober boating and keep our waterways safe,” Capt. Jim Bendle, commander, Sector Northern Great Lakes, said in a press release. “Boating under the influence of alcohol poses a serious risk not only to the safety of a vessel operator and their passengers but also to everyone else on the water; boat sober so everyone gets home safe.”