Oakland County Sheriff Increases Lake Patrols For 4th Of July

OAKLAND COUNTY, MI — The Oakland County Sheriff's Office is stepping up marine patrols on county lakes for the 4th of July weekend as part of Operation Dry Water, a national awareness and enforcement campaign to reduce alcohol and drug-related accidents and deaths on the water.

The sheriff's office said the county is a popular destination for water sports, with 450 lakes and 83,000 registered boats. Sheriff Michael Bouchard said he is encouraging residents and visitors to enjoy the holiday weekend with family and friends but to do it safely.

“We know the Fourth of July holiday is the focal point of summer for many families,” Bouchard said. “We want everyone to enjoy the many things that make Oakland County such an attractive destination, but we want the holiday to be a safe one. No matter whether you’re behind the wheel of a car or operating a boat, don’t drink alcohol and drive. There is only a downside for taking this kind of risk. Protect yourself, your family and your friends.”

Operation Dry Water was launched in 2009 by the National Association of State Boating Law Administrators, in partnership with the U.S. Coast Guard and local, state and federal law enforcement, the sheriff's office said.

In 2020, 620 local, state and federal agencies participated in Operation Dry Water. It is illegal in every state to operate a boat while under the influence of alcohol or drugs, which includes canoes and rowboats.