FORT MYERS BEACH, Fla. August 24,2026 — Labor Day weekend brings a surge of recreational boaters and paddlers to the local waterways of Fort Myers Beach. To ensure a safe holiday on the water, U.S. Coast Guard Auxiliary Flotilla 91 is partnering with the National Association of State Boating Law Administrators (NASBLA), the U.S. Coast Guard, and local law enforcement for the national Operation Dry Water heightened awareness campaign from September 5–7, 2026.

As the volunteer civilian component of the Coast Guard, the Auxiliary focuses its efforts on boater education, vessel safety checks, and public outreach. While local, state, and federal law enforcement agencies conduct increased water patrols and safety checkpoints to remove impaired operators, the Auxiliary works alongside these partners to inform the public about the severe risks of boating under the influence (BUI).

Alcohol use remains the primary contributing factor in recreational boater deaths. Operating a vessel under the influence—or riding as an impaired passenger—significantly increases the likelihood of preventable incidents, injuries, and fatalities on the water.

"The tragedies that happen on our waterways because individuals choose to boat while impaired are preventable," says Gary Martell, Coast Guard Auxiliary Flotilla Commander of Flotilla 91, Fort Myers Beach. "It is our job to do everything we can to ensure the safety of our recreational boaters and paddlers. That is why the Coast Guard Auxiliary is joining all 56 states and U.S. territories to do our part in keeping boaters safe and preventing incidents, deaths, and injuries caused by boating under the influence."

Key Safety Reminders for Local Boaters:
• Boat Sober: Operating any vessel—including powerboats, sailboats, personal watercraft, and kayaks—under the influence of alcohol or drugs is illegal and dangerous on all waterways.
• Designate a Sober Skipper: Ensure a competent, fully sober operator is at the helm at all times.
• Wear a Life Jacket: Always wear a Coast Guard–approved life jacket when on or near the water.
• Expect Increased Water Presence: Local law enforcement will be actively monitoring waterways and checkpoints to remove impaired operators and protect the community.

Launched in 2009 by NASBLA and the U.S. Coast Guard, Operation Dry Water is a year-round national campaign dedicated to making waterways safer through public education and targeted enforcement.

For more boater safety information, visit OperationDryWater.org or contact Coast Guard Auxiliary Flotilla 91 Fort Myers Beach.

Media Contact:

Daniel Eaton
Flotilla Staff Officer Public Affairs
PublicAffairs@Aux91FMB.org | 239-690-6780 Option 4

Flotilla 91 Online Newsroom