At right, "Mortie" the manatee plush toy donated by SMC to the Operation SEASPRAY effort, along with the life vest donated by MADD and Boat U.S./West Marine.

On October 23, 2004 from 12 noon until 8:00 pm, the Lee County Sheriff’s Office Marine Unit, along with the US Coast Guard, US Customs, Sanibel Police Department Marine Unit, Fort Myers Police Department Marine Unit, Cape Coral Police Department Marine Unit, and Florida Fish & Wildlife, conducted Operation "Sea Spray 2004 Phase II". Operation SEASPRAY (Selective Enforcement & Awareness Special Patrol Reducing Accidents 2004) was conducted throughout the day as an effort in detecting and apprehending impaired boaters and providing education in boating safety.

Boating accident statistics illustrate a need for water safety programs and enforcement, that is why MADD-Southwest Florida (Mothers Against Drunk Driving) helped support the operation by providing law enforcement with life vests (donated by Boat US/West Marine ) and waterproof neck-totes. In addition, a small plush manatee toy dubbed "Mortie" was handed out to children during the boat inspections. Save the Manatee Club donated the manatee toys for the project.

Florida Recreational Boating Fatalities increased 23% in 2003. Alcohol contributed to 33% of all fatal boating accidents. 88% of those who died in boating accidents were not wearing a life jacket. MADD acts as a voice for America’s youngest passengers, protecting them from the dangers of riding with an impaired driver.

For further information on Operation SEASPRAY, please contact: Sergeant Jerry Cantrell
Lee County Sheriff’s Office, Marine Unit at (239) 633-2902.

Media inquiries can be directed to the Lee County Public Information Office at (239) 477-1340 or to Laura Combs, Save the Manatee Club Southwest Florida Regional Coordinator, at (239) 425-1541.
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