Boat Safe, Boat Smart, Boat Sober

With Memorial Day signaling the on-set of summer, boaters are heading out on the lakes, rivers and oceans. But, before you decide you’ll be boating and drinking like a fish, Arizona Game & Fish has a short message regarding Boating Operating Under the Influence:

Boating, fishing and water sports can be loads of summer fun, so don’t let alcohol turn a fabulous day on the water into a tragedy!

Although Arizona Boating information revealed that Arizona law enforcement agencies arrested over 350 people last year for operating a watercraft under the influence, it is illegal to operate a boat while under the influence of alcohol or drugs in every state.Operating a boat while impaired is just as dangerous and illegal as drinking and driving. Alcohol affects judgment, vision, balance and coordination. It also greatly increases the likelihood of accidents.

What’s more, the effect of alcohol is even more hazardous on the water than on land. The motion, vibration, engine noise, sun, wind and spray of the boat can accelerate a drinker’s impairment. Whether on land or water, the legal limit for blood alcohol is .08.

Unlike driving a car, boating safety education is not required to operate a boat in most states, including Arizona. However, reports have shown that educated boaters are 70% less likely to be involved in a boating accident.

If you live in Arizona, boating safety education classes are offered statewide and offered through Boating Education Online.

Stay afloat while you boat this summer and remember to Boat Safe, Boat Smart and Boat Sober!

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