In an effort to keep state waterways safe during the upcoming July Fourth holiday weekend and beyond, the S.C. Department of Natural Resources Law Enforcement Division will again be conducting courtesy safety inspections at some public boat landings.
The July Fourth holiday weekend, July 2-4, is one of the busiest weekends of the year on state waters.
DNR boating safety and enforcement officers will perform a quick, but thorough inspection for items such as required safety equipment and proper boat and motor registration.
Those who are not in compliance with safety regulations or registration requirements will not be ticketed during the complimentary inspections. Instead, 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.
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. For a copy of South Carolina’s boating regulations, to find out about local boating safety courses or to obtain a free float plan form, contact the DNR Boating Safety Office at 1-800-277-4301 or visit http://www.dnr.sc.gov/education/boated.html.
Courtesy boat inspections will be held at the following locations:
July 2
• Anderson County: Riverfork Forks Boat Ramp-Lake Hartwell, 2 p.m. to 4 p.m.
• Lexington County: Lake Murray Dam – Lake Murray, 10 a.m. to noon
• Newberry County: Billy Dreher Island – Lake Murray, 10 a.m. to noon
• Oconee County: South Cove Park-Lake Keowee, 10 a.m. to noon
• Pickens County: Twelve Mile Park-Lake Hartwell, 10 a.m. to noon
July 3
• Greenwood County: Greenwood State Park-Lake Greenwood, 10 a.m. to noon
July 4
• Laurens County: Riverfork Public Landing – Lake Greenwood, 10 a.m. to noon
• Newberry County: Billy Dreher Island – Lake Murray, 10 a.m. to noon