The South Carolina Department of Natural Resources will be offering boat safety checks at public boat landings across the state this Memorial Day weekend. 

Memorial Day marks the start of summer boating season and is one of the busiest weekends on South Carolina’s lakes and rivers, the press release said. SCDNR officers want to make sure everyone has a safe and fun time on the water.

During the inspections, officers will quickly check for required safety gear and make sure boats are properly registered. Those who are not in compliance with safety regulations and registration requirements will not be ticketed, instead, they’ll be told what to fix before launching their boat. 

Officers will also be there to answer questions and give tips on how to stay safe while boating. 

Boat inspection times and locations for Lexington County:

• Saturday, May 24: Lake Murray Dam Landing, 10 a.m. to noon
• Monday, May 26: Lake Murray Dam, 10 a.m. to noon

To report unsafe boating, call the 24/7 SCDNR hotline at 1-800-922-5431 or dial #DNR on your cell. 

For boating rules, regulations, safety courses or free float plan forms, visit the SCDNR website or call 1-800-277-4301.