USCG Ramping Up Calif. Safety Patrols During July 4 Weekend

ALAMEDA, CA -- Coast Guard and Coast Guard Auxiliary crews throughout California will increase boating safety patrols during the July 4th holiday weekend in support of Operation Dry Water, a nationwide effort to enforce Boating Under the Influence (BUI) laws, the USCG said June 30.

Operation Dry Water is aimed at raising awareness of the dangers of operating under the influence to help decrease the number of recreational boating accidents and deaths. It is illegal to operate a boat while under the influence of alcohol or drugs in every state. Penalties for violating BUI laws include large fines, suspension or revocation of boat operator privileges and jail terms.

From Saturday through Monday, boaters can expect increased presence from the Coast Guard and Coast Guard Auxiliary who will be paying particular attention to recreational boating safety this weekend. The Auxiliary will be performing dockside safety equipment inspections, while the Coast Guard and its local law enforcement partners will be conducting boating safety boardings.

“While we want you to enjoy your July 4th holiday, we want you to do so safely and responsibly,” said Rear Adm. Andrew Sugimoto, commander, Eleventh Coast Guard District. “We urge boaters to take some simple precautions, such as wearing a life jacket, filing a float plan and limiting alcohol consumption to ensure a safe and memorable experience.”

California has the fourth largest number of recreational boats in the country and has the second highest number of boating-related accidents and deaths, according to the Coast Guard’s 2021 statistics.

Nationwide, 658 people died and 2,641 were injured in boating and paddling accidents in 2021. About 74% drowned, and more than 73% of those people were not wearing a life jacket. Alcohol use is the lead contributing factor in fatal boating accidents, accounting for 13% of all reported fatalities.