Press Release

Operation Dry Water and 4th of July Boating Safety Media Ride-Along

Richmond, VA — This Independence Day weekend remember to put safety first when out on the water by always designating a sober operator and always wearing a life jacket. Operation Dry Water weekend is an enhanced presence and enforcement effort where the Virginia Department of Wildlife Resources (DWR) Law Enforcement Division, in partnership with the National Association of State Boating Law Administrators (NASBLA), amplify outreach, education, and enforcement around boating under the influence. No matter where you boat or type of vessel, recreating sober and wearing a life jacket is essential for safety!

According to data from NASBLA, the relative risk of death in a boating related incident is equivalent for drinking operators and drinking passengers. Alcohol can impair judgement, balance, vision, and reaction time. In addition, sun, wind, noise, vibration, and motion can intensify the side effect of alcohol, drugs and even some medications. These all contribute to the need for boaters and passengers to recreate responsibly and safely.

During the 2023 Operation Dry Water enhanced enforcement weekend, DWR Conservation Police Officers (CPO) arrested five individuals for boating under the influence, issued 147 citations for other boating violations and gave 156 verbal warnings. In addition, CPOs made contact with more than 2,000 boaters offering guidance and education on safe boating practices.

While preparing for your time out on the water, boaters should make sure they have U.S. Coast Guard-approved life jackets in good condition that fit every occupant of the boat, including children. And remember to inspect all your gear, including inflatable life jackets. Inflatable life jackets make it easy for adults to “Wear It” while enjoying their time on the water and being a good role model for young people on their boats.

“So far this year nine people have lost their lives in boating related incidents on Virginia waterways. This is more than all of 2023 and tragically none of them were wearing life jackets,” noted DWR Major Ryan Shuler. “Help us ensure the waterways are safe this holiday weekend and all summer long by wearing your lifejacket and always designating a sober operator if there is alcohol on board. Boating under the influence is just like drunk driving – unacceptable, illegal, and deadly.”

No matter what time of year you go boating, always put safety first while planning your trip. Let someone know where you are going and when you expect to return. When planning your trip, always be weather aware. Check the forecast while planning your trip and double check it before departing. Weather conditions and a marine forecast can be found on the National Weather Service website and the United States Geological Survey has water temperatures for many inland lakes and rivers. Also, know your vessel and have a plan to re-board your boat in case the unexpected happens and you end up in the water.

To learn more about boating in Virginia, including information on applicable laws, education and water safety, please visit the DWR boating webpage. Remember, everyone wants to have a safe, enjoyable day on the water. Do your part by wearing your life jacket and taking a boating safety education course.

Be responsible, be safe and have fun! #RecreateResponsibly

Media Ride-Along plus interviews:

RICHMOND
Monday, July 1, 10 a.m. – 1 p.m.
Osborne Landing Boat Ramp
9530 Osborne Turnpike, Richmond, VA 23231

SMITH MOUNTAIN LAKE
Tuesday, July 2, 10 a.m. – 1 p.m.
Waterwheel Marina
1252 Waterwheel Drive, Moneta, VA 24121

If you are interested in participating in the ride-along, please email and schedule a time. Participants should wear comfortable clothing and shoes appropriate for boating.

DWR welcomes members of the media to join us to talk boating and water safety. Your partnership in getting these life-saving messages to the public is vitally important.

ALWAYS WEAR YOUR LIFE JACKET. IT WILL SAVE YOUR LIFE.