We propose to conduct additional analyses of a large, unique set of data containing extensive survey data, including BAC measurements, from representative samples of boaters in North Carolina and Maryland. We have completed the case-control analyses for which this study was primarily designed. However, there is a great deal of additional information available in the data base that should be analyzed and reported to increase our limited understanding of the nature and extent of alcohol use among recreational boaters. Using these data, which include information on nearly 5,000 boaters interviewed on the water from 1997 through 1999, along with records of almost 800 boating fatalities, we will conduct analyses and write articles for publication to: (1) thoroughly describe alcohol use among recreational boaters in North Carolina and Maryland, looking at variations across demographic subgroups, settings (time and location), and boat/activity characteristics; (2) compare alcohol use among boaters and motor vehicle drivers, using both survey data and information from fatalities, and (3) examine alcohol use among personal watercraft (""""""""jet ski"""""""") operators in North Carolina. In addition we will conduct a number of exploratory analyses of these data to pursue other topics of potential interest to alcohol and injury prevention researchers. We will attempt to determine whether, or how well, boaters' BAC while on the water can be predicted from various combinations of boat, boater, activity and situational characteristics, as well as self-report information about drinking. Similar analyses will be conducted for PWC operators and passengers. In addition, analyses will be conducted to determine whether environmental controls on alcohol (prohibiting alcohol at lakes; prohibiting alcohol in public parks/beaches) appears to affect drinking among boaters and PWC riders.
