As the fourth of july quickly approaches, law enforcement agencies are out in full force making sure boaters aren't too relaxed.
"It's just as dangerous if not more dangerous than on the highway," said Stephanie Weatherington with the Arkansas Game and Fish Commission. "Boats don't have brakes, there's no lanes to stay in so you really need to be aware of your surroundings."
And alcohol doesn't help, either.
"You'd think that people would want to be more within your faculties when you're in the water just because of those issues but obviously people don't look at it that way," said Lt. Carl Minden with the Pulaski County Sheriff's Department.
It's only the third day of summer and already 35 Boating While Intoxicated tickets have been issued to drivers.
"Out here on the water, you've got the flow, and everything is moving so it's nonstop," said Lt. Minden.
This is not the easiest ticket to issue, but it's a necessary one. So far this year six people have died from boating accidents on the Arkansas River.
"We want you to go out and have a great time on the lakes and rivers of our state but come home safe and sound. That's the overall goal," said Bob Cushing with the Arkansas Game and Fish Commission.
Every person must have a life jacket inside the boat at all times and the Pulaski County Sheriff's Office isn't afraid to ticket all in an effort to remind boaters this river is unpredictable so it's your job to be ready.
To operate a boat, your blood alcohol level must be under .08 - the same as driving a car. Sheriff's deputies warn even if you aren't at that point, they're not afraid to give you a ticket.
