Statewide BUI Crackdown Announced

Tampa Bay area boaters with drinking on their minds will want to designate someone else to operate their vessels as the weekend gets under way.

Law enforcement agencies throughout the state have announced their intentions to take part in the Operation Dry Water national push to raise awareness about the dangers of impaired boating. The annual crackdown takes place Friday, June 24 through Sunday, June 26.

The Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission is among the agencies across the state planning to have officers out in force on local waters throughout the weekend.

"It is our job as law enforcement officers to identify and removed impaired boaters from the water so that everyone else can continue to have an enjoyable boating season and not become a victim of boating under the influence," said Maj. Richard Moore, who heads up FWC's boating and waterways section. "Our agency is participating in Operation Dry Water, and joining thousands of law enforcement officers nationwide to decrease the number of accidents, injuries and deaths that come as a result of boaters who choose to drink and boat.”

A number of local law enforcement agencies, including the Sarasota County Sheriff’s Office, have also announced plans to take part in the weekend push.

"Just as drinking and driving on the road is dangerous, so is drinking and boating," said Sheriff Tom Knight. "It's a beautiful time of year in Sarasota County and we're participating in Operation Dry Water so that everyone has a safe and enjoyable experience on our waterways."

It is against the law in Florida for a person to operate a boat with a blood alcohol level of .08 or higher. That’s the same level for operating a vehicle.

Photo courtesy of the Sarasota County Sheriff’s Office Facebook page