Free boat inspections set for holiday weekend

The S.C. Department of Natural Resources Law Enforcement Division will conduct free boat-safety inspections at public landings this weekend.

Inspections in Beaufort County and the surrounding area will be from 9 a.m. to noon on the following days and locations:

• Today at Bennett's Point on Mosquito Creek on the Ashepoo River.

• Sunday at the Edgar Glenn Landing on S.C. 170 at Lemon Island.

• Monday at the C.C. Haigh Jr. Landing on Pinckney Island on Mackays Creek.

YOU WON'T GET TICKETED

The inspections by the DNR boating safety and enforcement officers will last a few minutes and will focus on required safety equipment and proper boat and motor registration, according to a DNR news release.

Those who are not in compliance with safety regulations or registration requirements will not be ticketed during the complimentary inspections, the release said. They will be given an opportunity to correct the problem before they launch their boat. DNR officers will also be available to answer questions and give boaters tips on how to stay safe on the water, the release said.

WHAT EVERY BOATER NEEDS

More than 90 percent of all boating fatalities could be prevented with the proper use of life jackets, DNR says.

Here's what you need onboard:

• Wearable personal floatation devices are required for each person.

• On boats 16 feet and longer, throwable devices, such as flotation cushions, are required in addition to wearable devices.

• Life jackets must properly fit each individual, whether child or adult, and be serviceable without tears, holes or other damage or wear that would reduce their effectiveness.

REPORT RECKLESS BOATING

To report boating violations, such as reckless operation or an intoxicated boat operator, call the DNR toll-free, 24-hour hotline at 1-800-922-5431.