DEM, other law enforcement agencies to patrol waters this weekend

Bella Pelletiere, Josh Kurman,
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A RIDEM Environmental Police Officer patrolling the waters off Fort Adams State Park in Newport. (Rhode Island Department of Environmental Management)

PROVIDENCE, R.I. (WLNE) — The Department of Environmental Management and other law enforcement agencies will be out in full force for the Fourth of July weekend to initiate “Operation Dry Water.”

According to DEM, impairment can be even more dangerous for boaters than for drivers because most boaters have less experience and confidence operating a boat than a car.

“Get your boating safety card before, if your born after 1986 you need it – it’s a requirement,” said Environmental State Police officials.

“Check the weather before you go, you can see today it’s not as nice as yesterday.”

In addition, factors that are common to boating such as sun, wind, noise, vibration, and motion can intensify the effects of alcohol, drugs, and other medications.

Similar patrols will be conducted in Massachusetts and New Hampshire.

Categories: News, Providence

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