The following is a public service announcement for Safe Boating Week: Saturday...

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...Boating Under the Influence...

The following is a safe boating message from the National Safe Boating Council and the National Weather Service for this year's National Safe Boating Week.

The effects of alcohol can be even more hazardous on the water than on land. Boating Under the Influence, or BUI, affects judgment, vision, balance and coordination. These impairments can increase the risk of being involved in a boating accident—for both passengers and boat operators. Alcohol is a contributing factor in about a third of all recreational boating fatalities.

It is illegal in every state to operate any boat or watercraft while under the influence of alcohol or drugs. Penalties can include fines, suspension or revocation of your driver's license and even jail time.

Every boater needs to understand the risks of boating under the influence of alcohol or drugs.

To learn more, visit the National Safe Boating Council online, at www.safeboatingcouncil.org. Visit the National Weather Service at www.weather.gov.