By JOSH AULT
6 News Reporter
NORRIS (WATE) - A special operation to crack down on people boating under the influence is underway.
"Operation Dry Water" is a nationwide effort and Tennessee Wildlife Resources Agency officers are taking part.
TWRA boating officer Jeff Roberson will have a little bit more help this weekend making sure impaired boaters are off the water.
He will be assisted by deputies from area sheriff's department to patrol all area lakes from June 22 to June 24.
"We are looking for everyone to be safe on the water," said Roberson. "We want everyone to have a good time, but we want them to be safe as well. We are looking for careless or reckless operation. One of our main focuses this weekend will be looking for impaired operators."
This annual operation is usually held shortly before the Fourth of July, which is one of the deadliest times for boaters.
During this time, more boaters on the water, and more people are drinking alcohol.
It is important to remember one drink out on the water is like three drinks on land.
"You get stressors when you out on a boat," explained Roberson. "The stressors may include your involvement in some kind of water sport, you get fatigue, out there with the noise, engine vibrations, the sun beating on you all day. All those thing compound the effects of alcohol."
Boaters we spoke with are glad officers will be out in force to keep unsafe drivers out of the water.
"It's very important to have a designated driver and to always be safe," said boater Taylor Rhea.
"Operation Dry Water" was started in 2009
