OLYMPIA — Marine law enforcement agencies throughout Washington plan emphasis patrols Friday through Sunday to target boaters operating vessels while under the of alcohol or drugs.
Sixty-four people have died in Washington in the past 10 years where alcohol use was a contributing factor, according to the Washington State Parks and Recreation Commission.
A year ago, during the 2013 campaign, 169 enforcement officers contacted 3,908 boaters and issued 1,364 boating safety warnings, six boating under the influence citations and 219 citations for other violations.
“Sun, wind, noise, vibration and motion — all common stressors in the boating environment — intensify the effects of alcohol, drugs and even some prescription medications,” said Hoyle Hodges of the state parks commission.
