Beginning today (Friday), the Iowa Department of Natural Resources (DNR) will be focusing on keeping boaters safe by cracking down on boating under the influence. The Operation Dry Water campaign is aimed at heightening awareness and enforcement of Iowa’s boating under the influence laws in hopes of decreasing the number of crashes and deaths. Now until July 2, boaters will see an increased presence on the water and at recreational checkpoints. Impaired operators will be removed, providing a more safe and enjoyable experience for other boaters. “Alcohol impairs judgment and reaction time on the water just as it does when driving a car, even more so because of the added stressors of sun, heat, wind and noise on a boat,” says Jeff Swearngin, the DNR’s law enforcement bureau chief. “Choosing to consume alcohol while boating puts everyone at risk, including passengers and people in the water
