(WWJ) A stern reminder from authorities in metro Detroit: Drinking and boating do not mix.
Oakland County Sheriff Michael Bouchard says his marine deputies will be out in force on county lakes for the 4th of July holiday weekend, which is shaping up to be a gorgeous one.
The effort is part of Operation Dry Water, a national awareness and enforcement campaign to reduce alcohol and drug-related accidents and fatalities on the water.
Bouchard said deputies the county has 83,000 registered boats, which will keep his deputies busy with plenty of boat traffic expected.
Some of the lakes to be patrolled include Cedar Island, Deer Lake, Lake Orion, North and South Commerce Lakes, Orchard Lake, Pontiac Lake, Walled Lake and White Lake.
"We've got 23-some boats," Bouchard told WWJ's Michael Cohen. "You know, to the extent we can we're gonna push as many of those out onto the lakes. Obviously, with 450 lakes we can't be everywhere, but then we'll also have what we call jump boats, and those will be responding to either emergencies or complaints."
Bouchard is encouraging residents to enjoy the holiday with family and friends, but to do so safely. So, if you're going to drink, make sure there's a sober adult around who knows how to drive the boat.
Bouchard wants boat drivers who are thinking about drinking alcohol this weekend to consider the grave consequences.
"The first concern is the impact it'll have on your life if you're the cause or factor for somebody to die or be seriously injured because of your drinking, and piloting your craft" Bouchard said. "And secondairy, the legal implications are the same as if you drive a car drunk. It'll be on your record; it's an arrestable offense; it's a jailable offense."
The sheriff notes that alcohol use is the leading known contributing factor in fatal boating accidents, and operating a boat with a BAC (blood alcohol content) of .08 or higher is against federal and state laws.
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