NEVADA COUNTY

As boating traffic increases over the Fourth of July holiday weekend, the Nevada County Sheriff’s Office (NCSO) will increase on-the-water patrols and enforcement as part of Operation Dry Water, a national campaign focused on preventing boating under the influence (BUI). From July 3 to 5, deputies will take part in the initiative in partnership with the National Association of State Boating Law Administrators and the U.S. Coast Guard.

Alcohol use remains the leading known contributing factor in recreational boating fatalities. As part of Operation Dry Water, NCSO will focus on public education, compliance checks, and enforcement efforts designed to identify and remove impaired vessel operators from the water. Boaters can expect to see an increased law enforcement presence at lakes throughout the region.

In California, it is illegal to operate a vessel with a blood alcohol concentration (BAC) of 0.08 percent or higher. Operating a vessel while impaired is illegal and can result in arrest, fines, and other legal consequences, as well as serious or fatal injuries. NCSO urges boaters to always boat sober and utilize a life jacket when on or near water.

Visit operationdrywater.org for more information about boating under the influence.

~ Nevada County Sheriff’s Office press release