STILLWATER, Minn - The mix of heat, alcohol, and high waters is at the center of a nationwide safety push that includes Minnesota's lakes and rivers this weekend.
Operation Dry Water runs Friday through Sunday and will include extra officers from numerous law enforcement agencies across the state.
“Operation Dry Water is an annual 3-day nationwide campaign aimed at deterring boating under the influence,” Minnesota DNR Lt. Adam Block says.
Last year, the nationwide campaign led to more than 500 arrests.
Officials say more than half of all boating fatalities are caused by alcohol.
"Operating a recreational vessel with a blood alcohol of 0.08 or higher is against Minnesota law," Block explains.
High water levels will also be a concern this holiday weekend, officials say.
There is currently a no wake ordinance on the St. Croix River.
Officials say numerous other lakes and rivers also have ordinances that will be in effect this weekend.
"We're urging people to use caution because we do have floating debris in these moving bodies of water and there are a lot of docks that are submerged," Lt. Block says.
Officials say the heat will also pose a danger to boaters this weekend.
Boating in temps that hover around the triple digits will encourage more drinking to stay cool and will enhance that alcohol’s effect.
“You can have only one or two and not feel it, but then suddenly you’re dehydrated and you’re in trouble,” Block says.
Minnesota law treats boating while intoxicated, or a BWI, the same way as a DWI.
Your first offense can land you up to 90 days in jail and/or up to a $1,000 fine.