Authorities step up patrols on drunk boating

CHICAGO (WLS) -- Concerns about boating safety are being raised in the Chicago area after several fatalities on the waterways over the last few weeks.

In the area off Oak Street Beach, many will come this weekend to escape the summer heat. But it's also where Chicago Police Department marine units will set up patrols looking for drunk boaters.

"You'd be surprised. You will find people operating a vessel with a beer in one hand and a hand on the wheel," said Lt. Allison Schloss, Chicago Police Department Marine Unit commander.

With so many people heading out onto Lake Michigan this year once again, local authorities are participating in a national effort to warn the public about the dangers of drinking alcohol while boating and get drunk boaters off the water.

The campaign, started in 2009, is called Operation Dry Water.

This year's effort will launch during this three-day weekend from June 27-29. The U.S. Coast Guard will also be out in full force. And because alcohol impairs a boater's balance, vision, reaction time, and decision-making skills, dexterity and Breathalyzers tests, among others, will be used to weed intoxicated boaters before they hurt themselves or someone else.

Authorities encourage boaters and their passengers to wear life jackets and to carry the necessary safety gear, like fire extinguishers and flares saying by staying sober, everyone on board will be safer.

"But there will be people who get a little out of control, and we're trying to warn them, it's not a good idea," said Schloss.