SPRINGFIELD, Ill. — Illinois Conservation Police want it to be a safe 4th of July weekend for boaters.
State Department of Naturual Resources Spokesperson Tim Schweizer said Conservation officers will be participating in the National Operation Dry Water effort, working to ensure everyone stays safe.
“We want those who are operating a boat, the boat driver, the captain if you will, to be safe while on the water. And, the best way to be safe, is to be sober,” Schweizer said.
Illinois State Conservation Police are also urging boaters to wear a life jacket and make sure one is available for each person on board their watercraft.
According to the DNR, alcohol continues to be a leading known contributing factor to boating deaths and accidents.
Boaters can learn more about boating under the influence HERE.
Operation Dry Water is coordinated nationally by the National Association of State Boating Law
Administrators (NASBLA) in partnership with the U.S. Coast Guard.
