SCDNR to conduct boat safety checks over the holiday weekend

CHARLESTON, S.C. (WCBD) – The South Carolina Department of Natural Resources will conduct courtesy boat inspections across the state over the holiday weekend.

If you have your boat inspected, you will not be ticketed if your boat is non-compliant with current regulations. Instead, you will have an opportunity to correct any issues.

This is part of an effort to keep people and waterways safe during the Memorial Day weekend, which SCDNR said is one of the busiest times of the year for state lakes and waterways.

“SCDNR boating safety and enforcement officers will perform quick but thorough inspections for required safety equipment and proper boat and motor registrations,” said SCDNR. “Officers will also be available to answer questions and give boaters tips on how to stay safe on the water.”

Inspections will take place at the following locations in Charleston, Colleton, Georgetown, and Berkeley counties:

Saturday, May 24:

Charleston County: Wapoo Cut Landing, Intracoastal Waterway (ICW), 9 a.m. to 11 a.m.

Colleton County: Bennett’s Point, 9 a.m. to 11 a.m.

Sunday, May 25:

Berkeley County: William Dennis Landing, Tail Race Canal, 9 a.m. to 11 a.m.

Charleston County: Remley’s Point, 9 a.m. to 11 a.m.

Monday, May 26:

Charleston County: Limehouse Landing, 9 a.m. to 11 a.m.

Georgetown County: Carroll Ashmore Campbell Marine Complex Landing, 9 a.m. to 11 a.m.

You can report boating violations, such as reckless operation or an intoxicated boat operator, by calling SCDNR’s toll-free, 24-hour hotline at 1-800-922-5431 or dialing #DNR on your mobile phone.

The United States Coast Guard will also offer free vessel safety checks this weekend. Last year alone, officials said South Carolina reported 150 boating accidents, which resulted in 23 deaths.