INDIAN LAKE, Ohio (WLIO) — The Ohio Department of Natural Resources is partnering with law enforcement this holiday weekend to keep Ohio's waterways safe.
Operation Dry Water runs Friday through Sunday, with officers increasing patrols to reduce alcohol- and drug-related boating incidents. The Fourth of July weekend typically brings heavy boat traffic to Ohio waterways, including Indian Lake. Officers said they will have additional patrols on the water and on land, especially during Saturday's fireworks.
They also said some boaters mistakenly believe the rules are different on the water, but boating under the influence is illegal, just like driving a car.
".08 is the limit, just like it would be in a vehicle. And if you wouldn't feel like you should get behind the wheel of your vehicle, you shouldn't be getting behind the wheel of your boat. It doesn't just apply to powered vessels. It also applies to your kayaks and canoes. Not only state park water, but also the rivers and everything like that that is navigable by boat," said Lt. Mike Roeger with the Ohio Department of Natural Resources.
Officers are also reminding boaters to carry all required safety equipment, wear a life jacket and make sure their navigation lights are working properly before heading out on the water.
