COLUMBIA, S.C. — Local leaders are spreading awareness in hopes of a safe weekend this Memorial Day.
The Richland County Sheriff's Department Marine Patrol is all hands on deck this weekend as they prepare for a busy boating weekend. Corporal Derek Wilson says they'll have deputies patrolling the water from sun up to sun down in partnership with SCDNR.
"Memorial Day weekend is like the kickoff to summer, so you're going to have experienced boaters out here, you're going to have some people out here that's not so experienced, but we highly recommend that everyone boats with safety," he adds, "Some of the things that we will run into will be more at night time, people not having their navigational lights operable. Their white light sometimes is not working."
He explains boaters should make sure they're fully equipped before leaving the doc.
"If there are five people on a vessel, you have to make sure you have five approved US Coast Guard life vests on there," he says.
Wilson adds if you plan on drinking alcohol, do it responsibly.
"Make sure you stay hydrated. Make sure you at least have some sort of fanny pack or safety kit on your vessels just in case somebody is injured," he says.
Off the water, Columbia Fire Department Chief Aubrey Jenkins says people should also be mindful if they plan to grill.
"The main thing is to not let your guard down. When you're grilling, make sure you don't grill too close to the house, make sure you stay at least ten feet away from the house if you're grilling," he says.
He adds staying hydrated is also crucial when out partaking in activities.
"Even if you're grilling inside, make sure you take breaks, go inside, and refresh yourself. If you're out just taking it easy in the environment, make sure you have a shady spot," says Jenkins.