National Campaign Operation Dry Water Engages Boaters to Promote Safety on the Water

In a significant effort to improve safety on the nation’s waterways, the National Association of State Boating Law Administrators (NASBLA), in collaboration with the U.S. Coast Guard and various law enforcement agencies, conducted a highly effective Operation Dry Water from July 4 to July 6, 2025. This yearly initiative aims to decrease the instances of alcohol and drug-related incidents while promoting boater educational outreach.

During this three-day enforcement weekend, 451 law enforcement agencies deployed a total of 7,311 officers. The results were striking: officers arrested 501 individuals for boating under the influence (BUI) and made contact with a staggering 232,694 boaters across 87,830 vessels, issuing nearly 26,000 safety warnings and more than 8,500 citations for various violations.

Chris Jones, Chair of NASBLA, underscores the pivotal role that these arrests play in enhancing water safety. According to Jones, each BUI arrest signifies not just legal action, but the potential preservation of lives. He stated, "Every BUI arrest made during Operation Dry Water represents a life potentially saved and a step toward safer waters. The dedication of our officers and partner agencies shines through in their work on the water and in the communities they serve."

The campaign is more than just enforcement; it focuses on educating boaters about the dangers posed by alcohol and drugs when operating a vessel. It's imperative for boaters to understand that engaging in boating while impaired is not only illegal but significantly escalates the risk of incidents, leading to injuries or fatalities. Educational outreach during the campaign was constructed to create awareness and instill behavioral changes among boaters—key ingredients to preventing future tragedies.

Performed during the peak of the boating season around the July 4th holiday, Operation Dry Water takes advantage of heightened boating activity, a time notorious for increased risks of impaired boating incidents. The partnership with the Coast Guard and various local and federal agencies is crucial to generating awareness throughout the public domain and reiterating the message that safety is paramount.

Looking ahead, NASBLA, with the continued backing of the U.S. Coast Guard and various outreach partners, is unwaveringly committed to reducing boating-related injuries and fatalities. This mission is driven by strong community partnerships, continued public education efforts, and visible enforcement strategies.

To delve deeper into the specifics of Operation Dry Water, visit their official site at Operation Dry Water. The year-round initiative not only highlights awareness but also reinforces enforcement—aiming to deter alcohol use on the water and genuinely enhance safety for recreational boaters. The ongoing campaigns reflect the importance of collaborative efforts across various agencies and communities, fostering safer water activities for all.

Through comprehensive engagement strategies and a commitment to education and enforcement, Operation Dry Water sets a precedent for future campaigns. Together, we can promote a culture of responsible boating and significantly reduce the daunting statistics related to BUI-related incidents on our waterways.