STATEN ISLAND, N.Y. - Coast Guard Station New York is scheduled to participate in Operation Dry Water (ODW) June 26-28, 2015, as part of a nationally coordinated effort to reduce the number of accidents and deaths related to boating under the influence (BUI).Operation Dry Water is a year-round nationally coordinated heightened awareness and enforcement campaign, focused on deterring boaters from boating under the influence of drugs or alcohol.During ODW, Coast Guard boarding officers will be focusing their efforts on detecting impaired boaters and educating the public about the dangers of boating under the influence.Boating under the influence continues to be a major problem nationwide. In 2014, alcohol use was the primary factor in nearly one-fourth of boater deaths.By participating in ODW, Station New York is promoting safe recreational boating in an effort to reduce the number of accidents and deaths related to alcohol or drug use."As we enter the prime recreational boating season we want you to enjoy your time on the water," said Lt. Cmdr. Garrett Meyer, commanding officer of Coast Guard Station New York. "The maritime environment can be unforgiving and dangerous and we want to reemphasize the importance of safe boating practices and responsible alcohol use. As a boat operator, you are responsible for the lives of those you have aboard your vessel, and we want you, your passengers, and those you share the waterways with to make it home safely. Take this responsibility seriously."In New York and New Jersey boaters whose blood alcohol content (BAC) level exceeds the state limit of .08 can expect to be arrested for BUI and face other serious penalties including having their vessel impounded, payment of fines, or jail time. ODW patrols will include increased patrols and breathalyzer tests as well as boater education and outreach.ODW is a joint program of the U.S. Coast Guard, the National Association of State Boating Law Administrators, U.S. Park Police, New York Police Department, Westchester County Police, Union County Police, and New Jersey State Police.For more information on Operation Dry Water, please visit operationdrywater.org. See a list of participating of agencies by state at http://www.operationdrywater.org/agencies.