Independence Day Safe Boating and Driving

PennDOT, DCNR, Community Partners Stress Summer Travel and Boating Safety

Ahead of peak summer travel and Fourth of July celebrations, the Pennsylvania Department of Transportation (PennDOT), the Pennsylvania Department of Conservation and Natural Resources (DCNR), and various safety agencies are reminding drivers of the dangers of impaired driving and boating.

“Our partners at the U.S. Coast Guard Station Erie and the Pennsylvania Fish and Boat Commission (PFBC) will be on high alert for impaired boaters over the next several days,” said DCNR Park Ranger Brian Marendt. “Alcohol is prohibited anywhere within Presque Isle State Park to create the safest environment possible for all of our visitors.”

The boating-under-the influence (BUI) enforcement effort is part of Operation Dry Water, a nationally-coordinated campaign on waterways and recreational boating checkpoints.

In Pennsylvania, it is unlawful to operate any watercraft, powered or unpowered, while impaired by drugs, alcohol, or other substances. Penalties for BUI include fines, loss of boating privileges, and possible imprisonment.

In 2025, the Pennsylvania Fish and Boat Commission made 27 BUI arrests.

“The summer months are some of the busiest days of the year on Pennsylvania’s roads and waterways. Whether you are planning a family vacation or are getting together with friends for the holiday, safety should be top-of-mind,” said Jim Garrity, Director of Public and Legislative Affairs for AAA East Central.

The American Automobile Association (AAA) projects 72.2 million Americans will travel at least 50 miles from home for Independence Day between June 27 and July 5, 2026. This year’s domestic travel forecast surpasses last year’s record of 71.8 million travelers.

An impaired driving enforcement wave is underway through July 5, 2026. During this campaign, state and local law enforcement agencies are actively participating in activities such as roving patrols and DUI checkpoints to deter impaired drivers from getting behind the wheel.

Alcohol, prescription and over the counter medications, illegal drugs, and other substances can impair someone’s ability to drive by slowing coordination, judgement, and reaction times. Some medications can also cause extreme drowsiness or dizziness.

There were 272 crashes statewide last year from Independence Day to 6:00 AM the following day, resulting in eight fatalities and 181 injuries. A total of 52 crashes involved alcohol and 11 were drug related.

“Through proper preparation and better decision making, everyone has the power to potentially safe a life. Begin by making a plan to get home safely through a ride-share service or by making arrangements with a sober family member or friend,” said Mike Tautin, a Community Traffic Safety Project Coordinator with the Highway Safety Network.

For more information on Presque Isle State Park, including hours of operations, maps and guides, and a full listing of amenities, visit the DCNR website.

For more information on impaired driving, visit www.pa.gov/DOTSafety.