Expect Heavy Boat Patrols This Weekend in Michigan for Operation Dry Water

A nice weekend is ahead of us so if you're planning on spending it on the boat than expect heightened boat patrolling beginning today (Friday).

According to the Michigan DNR there will be extra boat patrols and deputies on the Great Lakes, inland lakes and rivers. This weekend is Operation Dry Water which is a national campaign that brings awareness to boating while under the influence.

People need to be aware of the dangers of drinking while boating, including passengers. So in an effort to bring that awareness there will be heavy patrolling this weekend on the waters.

“Conservation officers, along with other law enforcement officers across the state, will be focusing their efforts on all illegal boating activity, with a concentrated effort on drunk boating,” Wanless said. “Our goal is to save lives, and this is one way in which we can achieve that goal.”

Some safety tips include:

• Wear a life jacket
• Stay alert for other boaters, swimmers, etc.
• Carry a marine radio or cell phone