The Missouri State Highway Patrol joins agencies from across the country in a nationwide effort to reduce the number of accidents and deaths related to boating under the influence. It’s called “Operaton Dry Water,” and runs today through Sunday. The effort is held annually on the weekend before Independence Day.

The National Association of Boating Law Administrators offers this information on its Web site:

Alcohol is the leading contributing factor in fatal boating accidents. Alcohol use was the leading factor in nearly one-fourth (21%) of recreational boating deaths in 2014. From 2012 to 2013, there was a 31% decrease in the number of recreational boaters’ deaths where alcohol use was the known primary contributing factor, the largest decrease in the number of alcohol-related recreational boater deaths in the past five years.

The experts say alcohol use can impair a boater’s judgment, balance, vision and reaction time. Alcohol use can also increase fatigue and susceptibility to the effects of cold-water immersion. Sun, wind, noise, vibration and motion —“stressors” common to the boating environment— intensify the effects of alcohol, drugs, and some medications. Alcohol is dangerous for passengers too. Intoxication can cause slips, falls over board and other dangerous accidents.

If you boat under the influence of drugs or alcohol you are endangering your life and the lives of others. If you get caught boating under the influence your voyage may be terminated, the boat may be impounded and the operator may be arrested. Penalties vary by state but can include fines, jail and loss of boating or even driving privileges.