Drinking and driving a boat are never a good idea, especially this summer, as the state's toughest boating under the influence law goes into effect.

The law, which goes into effect July 28th, makes a BUI a gross misdemeanor, instead of a misdemeanor. The change in classification carries more jail time and heftier fines.

If convicted, you could spend more than a year in jail.

The law also requires boaters suspicious of driving under the influence to take a breathalyzer test on the spot.

If a boater refuse, they may be issued a $1,000 fine. A blood alcohol level over .08 is considered legally drunk.

"I think it's a good idea," said Deputy Travis Pendell.

"We don't have a lot of boating collisions in Spokane county but the ones we do there's alcohol involved and so if we can cut down on the number of alcohol involved accidents we are saving lives," he added.

On Sunday, several Spokane County Sheriff's deputies patrolled Newman and Liberty Lake to make sure people have life jackets and play safe on the water.

"Life jackets are my primary concern. I care about life jackets. you have to have one for everyone on the boat. Kids 12 and under have to have them on and they have to be the right size," Deputy Pendell said.

Pendell said they will be patrolling lakes all summer to keep people safe.