IDNR Reminds Boaters of Boat Safety

 As summer heats up and Illinoisans hit the water to celebrate Independence Day, Illinois Department of Natural Resources (IDNR) Conservation Police officers are reminding boat operators to always drive sober while on the water.

"When we talk about drunk driving, most people immediately associate it with getting behind the wheel of a car, but they should remember the same problems occur when boat operators drive drunk," said Lt. Curt Lewus, boating law admistrator, Illinois Conservation Police. "Just like a car or truck, boats are large, heavy machinery that become extremely dangerous to operate when you're under the influence.

Already theis year, Conservation Police Officers have made 17 arrests for operating under the influence - 10 in June alone. Last year, Conservation Police made 103 arrests for boaters operating under the influence (OUI). Additionally, Conservation Police Officers in 2019 issues 725 citations and 2,623 warnings in enforcement of Illinois boating safety laws.