Extra patrols to prevent ‘boating under the influence’

Extra patrols are on our rivers and lakes warning boaters about the dangers of boating under the influence. They come a week after one of the deadliest weekends on the water in recent memory.

There are emphasis patrols on the water to try to prevent any tragedy from unfolding this July Fourth weekend because of too much drinking while boating.

Operation Dry Water is happening across the country.

A King County sheriff’s marine unit sergeant who was there said he was “angry” because all the deaths were preventable.

And that is why they are out here this beautiful weekend to help prevent more tragedies like the ones they witnessed last weekend.

For the marine units that patrol the waters that abound in King County, summer 2021 has already proved deadlier than most. At least four people died last weekend on area lakes and rivers.

Sgt. Rich Barton with the King County sheriff’s marine unit was on three of the rescue attempts that turned into recoveries. Alcohol, he said, was not a factor in any of them.

So what was?

“Not wearing a life jacket,” said Barton. “Inexperience on the paddle boater, and not a good swimmer. The other one was jumping in to save his child and not wearing a life jacket and a poor swimmer, probably. In open water like this, this water is very difficult to swim in.”

That makes this weekend’s special emphasis patrols more important. Operation Dry Water is a nationwide attempt to spread the message of how quickly a nice day on the water can turn tragic.

The main takeaway on this spectacular Fourth of July: Don’t let too much drinking spoil your boating fun.

“And we want people to have fun,” said Barton. “This is a great time out on the water. They come out here. They come prepared with whatever they’re having. And as long as they have a designated driver, that’s one of the biggest things we do promote.”

For now, the patrols didn’t spot anyone drinking and boating while on board. That usually comes later into the evening.

But Barton said passengers should also make sure they know something about the boat they are on just in case.

“Most of the operators we come across — they’re the owners, and they’re the only ones who know how to operate the boat properly,” said Barton. “So they’re relying on someone who might not have knowledge.”

He said it is important that everyone on board have some knowledge about the boat, where the life jackets are, the fire extinguisher, other safety equipment, and more.

Besides, the water is still cold no matter the air temperature. So he wants everyone on a boat to wear a life jacket.

Most importantly, they should have fun and be safe.

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