The Fourth of July weekend is a time to celebrate — but not at the cost of safety. Operation Dry Water (ODW) returns July 4–6, 2025, with law enforcement across the nation stepping up to combat boating under the influence (BUI) and prevent alcohol- and drug-related tragedies on the water.
What You Need to Know:
- BUI is illegal and deadly. Impaired operation of a vessel endangers everyone onboard and on the water. In 2024, Florida alone saw 685 boating accidents and 81 fatalities — a tragic increase from the year before.
- Life jackets save lives. Many fatalities could have been prevented with proper life jacket use.
- Training matters. A shocking 65% of fatal accident operators had no formal boater education.
- ODW is more than just a weekend. It’s a year-round campaign to educate, enforce, and promote safe, sober boating. During ODW weekend, expect increased patrols and zero tolerance for impaired operation.
Who’s Behind It:
This initiative is led by the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission (FWC) in collaboration with the National Association of State Boating Law Administrators (NASBLA) and the U.S. Coast Guard. Together, they’re launching nationwide efforts to remind us: Boating under the influence is never worth the risk.
Free Resources:
- Vessel Safety Checks
- Boating Safety Classes
- Community Outreach & Events
For local resources and to learn more about how you can participate in safe boating efforts, visit the Cape Haze Flotilla of the U.S. Coast Guard Auxiliary at: https://wow.uscg.info/content.php?unit=070-09-09
