Indiana Cracks Down on Drunk Boating as Fourth of July Brings Crowds to the Water

With lakes and rivers packed this weekend, Indiana’s Department of Natural Resources is taking no chances — conservation officers are out in force to keep boaters safe and sober.

Operation Dry Water, the nationwide campaign against boating under the influence, kicks off just as families swarm docks and marinas for July 4th. For Indiana’s officers, this weekend is one of the busiest — and most dangerous — times of the year.

Booze and Boats: A Deadly Mix on the Water

It’s no secret that alcohol and boating don’t mix. But Gannery Htoo, an Indiana conservation officer, says too many folks still take the risk.

One sentence: BUI — boating under the influence — remains one of the top causes of deadly boating accidents.

Htoo says the Fourth consistently ranks as one of the worst weekends for reckless boating. Combine warm weather, crowded lakes, and a cooler full of beer, and you’ve got a recipe for disaster.

Operation Dry Water: Eyes Everywhere

This year’s campaign runs July 4 through 6. It’s part of a national push that started in 2009 to crack down on BUI before it ends lives.

In Indiana, you’ll see conservation officers patrolling:

Popular lakes and rivers
Boat launches and docks
Marinas and waterway entrances

Htoo says their priority is simple: “Boating safety first — we’re out here to keep people alive.”

It’s Not Just About Alcohol, Either

While booze is the big concern, other violations can be just as risky. Htoo says people are often shocked at how basic some infractions are.

Forgotten life jackets? Expired boat registration? A reckless jet ski? All of it adds up.

One line: A fun day on the lake can turn tragic in seconds.

Indiana law is clear. Every vessel must have one wearable life jacket for each person. If your boat is 16 feet or longer? You also need a type IV throwable flotation device.

A Quick Look at the Rules That Save Lives

Here’s what every boater should remember before leaving the dock:

Required Safety Gear	Boats <16 ft	Boats ≥16 ft
Wearable Life Jacket/Person	Yes	Yes
Throwable Device (Type IV)	No	Yes
Valid Registration	Yes	Yes
Sober Operator	Always	Always

It’s not complicated — but it’s easy to forget after a few beers.

More Than Tickets: It’s About Getting Home Safe

Htoo says tickets and arrests aren’t the goal — safety is. He knows most boaters just want to enjoy the holiday.

“Most folks mean well,” he says. “But one bad decision can cost a life.”

Operation Dry Water has already made an impact nationwide. Since it began, thousands of impaired operators have been removed from the water before they could cause an accident.

One short line: Better to miss a day on the lake than never come home at all.