Extra Patrols On Water Over Holiday Weekend
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MIAMI (CBSMiami/NSF) - Boaters should expect to see extra law enforcement on the water cracking down on drunk boaters and other sea-faring safety violations over the Independence Day holiday weekend.
The Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission has launched "Operation Dry Water" to remind boaters of some requirements designed to keep everyone safe. The U.S. Coast Guard and local law enforcement officers will join the FWC in policing state waters this weekend.
FWC officer Charles Mallow said it is important that boaters be prepared when they take to the water.
"Especially if you are dealing with children, the life jackets have to be for the size of child that is on the boat," Mallow said. "Make sure that your fire extinguisher is in good shape, if you are going to go offshore that your flares are in date, and ensure that your driver is sober."
Last year, four alcohol- or drug-related boating accidents in Florida resulted in six deaths over the Fourth of July weekend.
The News Service of Florida contributed to this report.
