Over the upcoming holiday weekend, Mercer Island Police Department’s Marine Patrol unit will again be participating in Operation Dry Water 2024. Each year, the department engages in the campaign, which focuses on keeping boaters safe, enforcing Washington boating laws and raising awareness about the dangers of boating under the influence.

“Alcohol is the leading contributing factor to fatal boating accidents,” reads a department social media post, which adds that its unit will be patrolling Lake Washington conducting sober boating emphasis.

The department offered the following reminders to boaters and their passengers: Never boat while impaired — impaired boating is impaired driving; wear a lifejacket; and stay safe and have fun.