Md. NRP To Raise Awareness Of Alcohol And Boating

ANNAPOLIS, Md. (AP) -- The Maryland Natural Resources Police will be working to raise awareness about the dangers of drinking while out on the water.

The NRP will be taking part Friday through Sunday in Operation Dry Water. It's part of a nationally coordinated program to underscore the dangers of boating under the influence of alcohol. Officers will target high-accident areas and places where boating and alcohol have been a problem.

Last year, alcohol and illegal drug use were a contributing factor in 8 percent of the 219 reportable boating accidents in Maryland. NRP placed 169 alcohol-related charges against boaters in 2010.

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