San Bernardino County Sheriff’s Department Selected To Host National Operation Dry Water Campaign

SAN BERNARDINO COUNTY, Calif. (VVNG.com) — The San Bernardino County Sheriff’s Department announced its Marine Enforcement Unit (MEU) has been selected by the National Association of State Boating Law Administrators (NASBLA) to host the regional kickoff for Operation Dry Water, a nationwide campaign focused on preventing boating under the influence and promoting safe recreation on the water.

According to a written statement from the San Bernardino County Sheriff’s Department, the selection recognizes the department’s continued commitment to boating safety, public education, and proactive enforcement across San Bernardino County’s lakes and waterways.

Operation Dry Water is a nationwide awareness and enforcement campaign that brings together federal, state, and local law enforcement agencies with the goal of preventing boating-related incidents caused by impaired operators. While the campaign receives increased attention during the Fourth of July holiday weekend, one of the busiest boating weekends of the year, the Sheriff’s Department said boating safety remains a year-round priority.

Throughout the holiday weekend, deputies assigned to the Marine Enforcement Unit will conduct high-visibility patrols on county waterways. Enforcement efforts will focus on impaired boat operators, reckless boating, excessive speed, life jacket compliance, and other violations that could place boaters and their families at risk. Deputies will also provide boating safety education to the public.

“Our deputies are committed to protecting everyone who enjoys our lakes and waterways,” Sheriff Shannon Dicus said. “We are honored that NASBLA selected our Marine Enforcement Unit to host this important campaign. While Operation Dry Water shines a national spotlight on boating under the influence during the holiday weekend, our commitment to education, enforcement, and saving lives extends throughout the entire year.”

The Sheriff’s Department reminded boaters that operating a vessel while impaired by alcohol or drugs is both illegal and dangerous. According to the department, alcohol can impair balance, coordination, judgment, reaction time, and the ability to safely operate a boat. Those effects may be intensified by sun exposure, wind, heat, and wave motion.

The Marine Enforcement Unit will continue regular patrols and boating safety enforcement after the holiday weekend as part of its ongoing efforts to reduce preventable collisions, injuries, and fatalities through education, visibility, and enforcement.

Before heading out on the water, the Sheriff’s Department encourages boaters to:

• Designate a sober operator before launching.
• Ensure everyone has a properly fitted U.S. Coast Guard-approved life jacket.
• Check weather and water conditions before departing.
• File a float plan with family or friends.
• Know and follow all boating laws and navigation rules.

The San Bernardino County Sheriff’s Department said it will continue partnering with NASBLA, the California State Parks Division of Boating and Waterways, and allied public safety agencies to promote safe boating for residents and visitors alike.

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