The Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission (FWC) and its marine law enforcement partners – the Florida Department of Environmental Protection, U.S. Coast Guard and Monroe County Sheriff’s Office – are gearing up for Operation Liveaboard. The operation will focus on areas with high densities of vessels with people living aboard them in the Florida Keys.

From Key Largo to Key West, officers will check these vessels’ occupants for compliance with Coast Guard-required safety equipment, state registration requirements, nighttime anchor lighting, and marine toilet specifications.

“This operation is important on two fronts,” said FWC Lt. Liz Riesz.

“First, from an environmental standpoint, enforcement during this operation will help keep the water clean and the reefs healthy. This benefits people recreating on or in the water and all marine life. Secondly, this operation proactively addresses boating safety. We want to make sure live-aboard boat occupants are running the proper lights. This will help prevent boating accidents.”

The three-day operation will take place in late February. For a summary of state boating laws, visit www.MyFWC.com/boating