Officers search for impaired boaters during New Year celebrations

MIAMI — Authorities expect more boaters than usual, as South Florida celebrates the arrival of 2021. That, officials said, means more law enforcement.

Officer Ronald Washington, a spokesman for the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission, said revelers should celebrate with safety in mind.

“We will be out there on the sandbars, in the waterways, making sure everyone is boating safely and not impaired by alcohol or drugs,” Washington said.

Boating while impaired could result in authorities impounding a boat, issuing fines, and making arrests. Officers will be conducting routine checks. The U.S. Coast Guard will be enforcing the slow speed limit on Biscayne Bay.

“As the day goes on, drinks start to take effect, so we want people to know, ‘Hey! We are watching you and we want to make sure you get home safe!’ And, we want to get home safe as well,” Washington said.

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Andrea Torres

Andrea Torres

The Emmy Award-winning journalist joined the Local 10 News team in 2013. She wrote for the Miami Herald for more than 9 years and won a Green Eyeshade Award.