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Boaters reminded to not drink and drive

Boaters reminded to not drink and drive

Memorial Day weekend traditionally marks the start of the busy boating and summer travel season. The N.C. Wildlife Resources Commission is encouraging safe boating practices and reminding the public of the dangers of operating a water vessel while impaired.  

“On the Road, On the Water, Don’t Drink and Drive” is a public safety campaign aimed at reducing alcohol and drug-related incidents on the roadways and waterways. 

According to the United States Coast Guard, most recreational boating incidents occur in the months of June, July and August. Operator inattention is a leading cause of boating accidents. So far, in 2026, there have been 26 boating incidents investigated. Five have been fatal, resulting in five fatalities. Alcohol was a factor in three of those incidents.

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