Port of San Diego Harbor Police Department Joins National Effort to Prevent Boating Under the Influence
Contact: Gabriella Rodriguez, 619.904.2137, grodriguez@portofsandiego.org
CONTACT: Lt. Victor Banuelos, 619.823.9135, vibanuel@portofsandiego.org
The Port of San Diego Harbor Police Department is participating in Operation Dry Water, a nationwide campaign focused on preventing boating under the influence (BUI) and promoting safe boating practices across U.S. waterways. Operation Dry Water will take place during Fourth of July weekend, a holiday known for an increase in alcohol- and drug-related incidents. With the added appeal of the Big Bay Boom fireworks show attracting hundreds of thousands of visitors to the area, the Fourth of July is among one of the busiest times of the year on and around San Diego Bay. To keep boaters safe, Harbor Police will conduct heightened patrols, vessel safety checks, and sobriety tests.
In 2024, alcohol use was the leading known contributing factor in fatal boating accidents nationwide. Alcohol not only impairs a boater’s judgement, balance, vision and reaction time, it can also increase fatigue and susceptibility to the effects of cold water immersion. Harbor Police would like to remind the public that boating under the influence is just as dangerous as driving under the influence and carries similar legal consequences.
Aside from designating a sober driver, other safety tips include making sure you have all your required safety equipment on board including navigational lights and personal floatation devices. All children under the age of 13 are required to wear a lifejacket on a vessel of any length.
This marks the 17th year of Operation Dry Water, coordinated by the National Association of State Boating Law Administrators (NASBLA) in partnership with the U.S. Coast Guard. To learn more about boating safety, visit operationdrywater.org.
About THE Port of San Diego
The Port of San Diego serves the people of California as a specially created district, balancing multiple uses on 34 miles along San Diego Bay spanning five cities. Collecting no tax dollars, the Port manages a diverse portfolio to generate revenues that support vital public services and amenities.
The Port champions Maritime, Waterfront Development, Public Safety, Experiences and Environment, all focused on enriching the relationship people and businesses have with our dynamic waterfront. From cargo and cruise terminals to hotels and restaurants, from marinas to museums, from 23 public parks to countless events, the Port contributes to the region’s prosperity and remarkable way of life on a daily basis.
ABOUT PORT OF SAN DIEGO PUBLIC SAFETY
Port of San Diego Public Safety protects and oversees the safety of our dynamic San Diego Bay waterfront—land and sea.
Port Public Safety is responsible for safeguarding waterfront parks and land, maintaining homeland security and collaborating with agency partners to deter crime locally and abroad. Through the Harbor Police Department, the Port provides for the safety of our communities and resources along San Diego Bay and at San Diego International Airport, and is seen as a global leader in maritime and aviation public safety.