OAKLAND COUNTY ~ Deputies from the Oakland County Sheriff’s Office Marine Unit will increase patrols on county lakes for the July 4 holiday weekend as part of “Operation Dry Water,” a national awareness and enforcement campaign to reduce alcohol- and drug-related accidents and fatalities on the water.
Sheriff Michael Bouchard said in a press release that he encourages lake visitors to celebrate responsibly and be cautious when drinking alcohol. Oakland County is a popular destination for water sports with its 450 navigable lakes and 83,000 registered boats, the most of any county in Michigan.
Additional marine deputy patrols will be on the lakes for the holiday weekend for alcohol enforcement and marine safety patrols.
“This holiday weekend should be remembered for time with family, friends, and great memories— not tragedy,” Bouchard said. “The most effective lifesaving tool isn’t a boat or a rescue device; it’s an attentive adult whose sole responsibility is watching the water. If children or inexperienced swimmers are in or near the water, designate someone whose only job is to actively supervise them—free from distractions like phones, conversations, or grilling.
“Whether you’re boating, kayaking, paddleboarding, or enjoying time at the beach, make sure you have the proper safety equipment, including properly fitted life jackets and readily accessible throwable flotation devices where appropriate. And remember, alcohol and water are a dangerous combination. Alcohol is a leading factor in drowning deaths because it impairs judgment, balance, coordination, and the ability to respond in an emergency.“
