COLUMBUS -- There were few reportable accidents and no boating-related fatalities recorded in Ohio during the recent Fourth of July holiday extended weekend, according to the Ohio Department of Natural Resources (ODNR), Division of Watercraft.
Following its participation in Operation Dry Water, June 25-27, in which the Division of Watercraft arrested 11 boat operators for being above the legal alcohol impairment limit of .08, another 17 impaired boaters were arrested during the holiday weekend. State watercraft officers also arrested nine persons for various drug-related violations while making contacts with boaters during the long holiday weekend.
"The extent of concern remains strong in Ohio and elsewhere in removing boaters from waterways who may be impaired by alcohol or drugs," said Pamela Dillon, chief of the Division of Watercraft. "During the rest of the boating season, we will remain focused on removing impaired boaters from the water to ensure boating safety in addition to the enforcement of all boating rules."
According to the Division of Watercraft, under ideal boating conditions, the Fourth of July holiday weekend is the busiest boating weekend of the summer season. The summer boating season traditionally begins Memorial Day weekend in late May and ends Labor Day weekend in early September.
The Ohio Department of Natural Resources ensures a balance between wise use and protection of our natural resources for the benefit of all. Visit the ODNR website at www.ohiodnr.com.
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