SEATTLE — During the 67th annual Seafair, Coast Guard crews from around the Seattle area, in conjunction with local law enforcement, processed 25 different people over the weekend for boating under the influence on Lake Washington.
The Coast Guard was on hand, both on the water and at various marinas to ensure boaters were enjoying Seafair activities safely and responsibly.
In addition to addressing the BUI cases while conductingeducation, detection and enforcement patrols, Coast Guard crews from Coast Guard Station Seattle, Maritime Safety and Security Team 91101, Port Security Unit 313, Maritime Force Protection Unit Bangor and Sector Puget Sound Boarding Team, also responded to seven rescue related cases and conducted over 1000 safety checks. During these safety checks, crews worked with boaters to ensure all required safety gear such as lifejackets and fire extinguishers are onboard and operational.
The high volume of boating traffic from Seafair events on the lake increased the need for multi-agency cooperation to enforce safety on and along the water.
"Overall, this year's Seafair was a success,” said Lt. Cmdr. Pat Gallagher, chief of enforcement, Coast Guard Sector Puget Sound. “Although we did have some rescue and BUI cases, there were no fatalities or serious accidents and we appreciate the cooperation between responders, Seafair staff and members of the boating public to make this a fun and safe event.”
The Coast Guard has been participating in Seafair activities for more than 25 years and has stood watch over the people of the Pacific Northwest and visitors during this period of increased maritime activity.