FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Media Contact:
San Bernardino County Sheriff’s Department
Public Affairs Division
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San Bernardino County Sheriff’s Department Selected to Host National Operation Dry Water Campaign
The San Bernardino County Sheriff’s Department is proud to announce that its Marine Enforcement Unit (MEU) has been selected by the National Association of State Boating Law Administrators (NASBLA) to host the regional kickoff for Operation Dry Water, the nation’s leading campaign to combat boating under the influence (BUI) and promote safe, responsible recreation on our waterways.
Being selected by NASBLA to host this prestigious event recognizes the Sheriff’s Department’s longstanding commitment to boating safety, public education, and proactive enforcement throughout San Bernardino County’s lakes and waterways.
Operation Dry Water is a nationwide awareness and enforcement campaign that brings together federal, state, and local law enforcement agencies with one common goal: preventing tragedies caused by impaired boating. While the campaign receives heightened attention during the Fourth of July holiday weekend, one of the busiest times of the year on the water, the San Bernardino County Sheriff’s Department emphasizes that boating safety is a year-round priority.
Throughout the holiday weekend, Marine Enforcement Unit deputies will conduct high-visibility patrols across the county’s waterways, focusing on impaired boat operators, reckless operation, excessive speed, life jacket compliance, and other violations that place boaters and their families at risk. Deputies will also provide boating safety education to help ensure everyone enjoys a safe day on the water.
“Our deputies are committed to protecting everyone who enjoys our lakes and waterways,” said Sheriff Shannon Dicus. “We are honored that NASBLA selected our Marine Enforcement Unit to host this important campaign. While Operation Dry Water shines a national spotlight on boating under the influence during the holiday weekend, our commitment to education, enforcement, and saving lives extends throughout the entire year.”
The Sheriff’s Department reminds all boaters that operating a vessel while impaired by alcohol or drugs is illegal and dangerous. Alcohol affects balance, coordination, judgment, reaction time, and the ability to safely operate a boat. Combined with sun exposure, wind, heat, and wave motion, impairment can become even more dangerous on the water.
The Marine Enforcement Unit will continue conducting regular patrols and boating safety enforcement well beyond the holiday weekend, working to reduce preventable collisions, injuries, and fatalities through education, visibility, and enforcement.
Before heading out on the water, the Sheriff’s Department encourages boaters to:
• Designate a sober operator before launching.
• Ensure everyone has a properly fitted U.S. Coast Guard-approved life jacket.
• Check weather and water conditions before departing.
• File a float plan with family or friends.
• Know and follow all boating laws and navigation rules.
The San Bernardino County Sheriff’s Department remains committed to partnering with NASBLA, California State Parks Division of Boating and Waterways, and allied public safety agencies to make every day on the water a safe one for residents and visitors alike.
Please use the following link to view b-roll and the press conference held today in Lake Havasu, Az: https://we.tl/t-aZuxUSE5XxtdtRWf
