WINNIPEG — The Winnipeg Police Service will be out looking for drunk boaters this August long weekend.
Officers kicked off Operation Dry Water Thursday afternoon, part of a national effort by the Canadian Safe Boating Council. Across the provinces, enforcement will saturate high-traffic areas on lakes, looking for anyone driving a boat while under the influence.
The campaign reminds everyone not to drink and boat. Warmer, hotter days mean many are out on the water, enjoying fun in the sun, but intensifying factors known as stressors can worsen impaired boating, police say. Sun, wind, waves and the rocking motion of a boat can greatly increase the effects of alcohol on the water.
Open liquor is only allowed on boats with sleeping facilities, a washroom and cooking facilities, but even then, alcohol consumption is only allowed when the boat is docked or anchored.
Operation Dry Water started in 2013.
Alcohol is a factor in nearly 40 per cent of boating incidents.
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