CPW increases enforcement on waterways for Fourth of July weekend
Many people are expected to hit the water for Independence Day weekend, and because of that, Colorado Parks and Wildlife is getting the word out on safe boating practices.
CPW is launching its “Operation Dry Water” campaign to crack down on driving a boat while under the influence of alcohol or drugs.
Joe Stadterman with CPW said, “We will have extra boats out educating boaters about the dangers of boating under the influence and also taking extra enforcement action.”
The increased enforcement will run Friday through Sunday and include increased patrols, breathalyzer tests, and checkpoints.
“People are very used to driving cars, and they do it every day. So when you drink alcohol and you drive a boat that you don’t normally do, it creates even more problems,” said Stadterman.
And boaters we spoke with on Lake Pueblo all agree that this is a great idea.
“Always lots of families out here, and I think a lot of people come down here to get crazy and forget about the safety and having fun, and that’s when accidents happen,” said David Hammer.
While Matt Hill added, “It’s good to have that enforcement to make sure that people who might want to overindulge don’t and keep them away from people they might hurt.”
Parks and Wildlife said this is not something to mess around with. If you’re caught boating under the influence, your boat could be impounded and you could be arrested.
“Often times we will impound their boat and when we do come in contact with boaters under the influence we will arrest them and take them to the county jail just like a DUI,” said Stadterman.
Parks and Wildlife explains that it’s not just boating: people swimming under the influence is a major issue.
“A number of drowning victims that we have recovered this year have been intoxicated and trying to swim,” said Stadterman. “And we’ve already had a couple of close calls this weekend, so if you’re going to be in the water, you should probably limit your alcohol intake.”
If you suspect a boater is under the influence, Parks and Wildlife asks that you do not hesitate to contact authorities.
