COLUMBIA, S.C. (WSPA) – As you plan to enjoy the water this Fourth of July weekend, you might observe an increase in patrols and safety inspections.

The South Carolina Department of Natural Resources (SCDNR) is stepping up their presence throughout the state for the holiday weekend, conducting patrols in 15 counties from Friday through Sunday.

Officers will conduct boat inspections at public landings from 9:00 a.m. to 11:00 a.m.

“Our goal isn’t to issue tickets,” stated Colonel Chisolm Frampton, Commander of the SCDNR Law Enforcement Division. “We aim to ensure that people have the necessary safety items, such as life jackets, fire extinguishers, and proper registrations.”

Boaters missing safety equipment won’t be fined, but they will receive a heads-up to correct any issues before heading out on the water.

“There are no dotted lines or reflectors out there, and no brakes on boats,” said Billy Chastain with Dominion Energy, who is partnering with SCDNR. “These officers are your neighbors, and they care about keeping everyone safe.”

SCDNR has partnered with Sonic Drive-In and Wendy’s to encourage life jacket use among kids.

Children spotted wearing their life jackets properly could receive a free milkshake or Frosty coupon from officers.

“With over 325,000 registered boats, South Carolina is a boating state,” said Frampton. “Our goal is to make sure that everyone can enjoy the water responsibly.”

Free safety checks will be offered at the following locations from Friday through Saturday:

Friday, July 4

• Lake Bowen (Spartanburg County)
• Twin Lakes (Pickens County)
• Molly Creek (Fairfield County)
• Lake Murray Dam (Lexington County)
• Bass Pro Shop (Horry County)
• Wapoo Cut Landing (Charleston County)
• Battery Creek Boat Landing (Beaufort County)

Saturday, July 5

• River Fork Landing, Lake Hartwell (Anderson County)
• South Cove, Lake Keowee (Oconee County)
• Clearwater Cove, Lake Wateree (Kershaw County)
• Alex Harvin Landing, Lake Marion (Clarendon County)
• Hatchery Landing (Berkeley County)
• Remley’s Point (Charleston County)
• Buck Hall (Charleston County)

Sunday, July 6

• Scott’s Ferry, Lake Thurmond (McCormick County)
• Hwy. 72 Landing (Greenwood County)
• Seneca Creek, Lake Hartwell (Oconee County)
• Ebenezer Park (York County)
• Lake Murray Dam (Lexington County)
• Lemon Island Boat Ramp (Beaufort County)
• Limehouse Landing (Charleston County)
• Carroll Campbell Boat Ramp (Georgetown County)

For more information on South Carolina’s boating regulations, safety courses, or to download a float plan, visit SCDNR’s guide to boating education.