Memorial Day brings the unofficial start of summer, as people head outdoors for activities in the warmer weather. Many will take to the water at one of the Upstate’s lakes to enjoy boating and other water sports and activities.
It’s important if you choose to engage in boating and water activities that you do so safely to protect yourself and those with you. Follow these tips from the Safe Boating Campaign, a product of the National Safe Boating Council, to have a safe and enjoyable experience on the water this summer.
- Wear a life jacket. Always wear a life jacket every time you are on the water. A stowed life jacket is of no use in an emergency. For more information on choosing the right life jacket and ensuring a proper fit, visit the life jackets section of the Safe Boating Campaign website.
- Take a boating safety course. Gain valuable knowledge and on-water experience by taking a boating safety course. In South Carolina, boaters born after July 1, 2007 are required by law to pass an approved boater education course before operating a boat or personal watercraft. Visit South Carolina Department of Natural Resources (SCDNR) website for more information.
- Check equipment. Double check to make sure all essential equipment is present, working and in good condition and that you know your boat’s capacity.
- Create a float plan. Always let a trusted individual on shore know the trip itinerary, including operator and passenger information, boat description and registration, and communication equipment on board before you leave the dock.
- Use an engine cut-off switch – it’s the law. An engine cut-off switch is a proven safety device to stop a powerboat engine should the operator unexpectedly fall overboard.
- Monitor the weather. Always check the forecast before departing on the water and frequently during the excursion. Weather conditions can change abruptly, so make sure to prepare.
- Maintain a proper lookout. Operator inattention is the leading known primary contributing factor of boating accidents. Stay alert and focused at all times.
- Know where you’re going and travel at safe speeds. Be familiar with the area, local boating speed zones, and always travel at a safe speed.
- Never boat under the influence. Boating under the influence is the leading known contributing factor in boating fatalities. Always designate a sober skipper.
- Keep in touch. Have more than one communication device that works when wet. VHF radios, emergency locator beacons, satellite phones and cell phones can all be important devices in an emergency.
For more information on boating in South Carolina, including safety, regulations, education and more, visit the boating section of the SCDNR website.
SCDES issues Recreational Water Watch for Lake Hartwell due to harmful algal bloom
The South Carolina Department of Environmental Services (SCDES) continues to monitor the harmful algal bloom (HAB) on Lake Hartwell. On May 19, teams from SCDES’s Aquatic Science Division surveyed Lake Hartwell and observed the HAB in several locations.
While the bloom is still occurring, SCDES field teams indicated that conditions may be improving. Cyanotoxin concentrations continue to be low and below recreation water quality standards.
Based on the latest round of lake observations and water sampling, the Recreational Water Watch for the lake remains in effect. Recommendations from SCDES are to:
- Avoid direct contact with Lake Hartwell water in areas where the HAB is observed.
- Keep pets and animals from swimming in or drinking from the lake in these areas until the bloom has subsided.
If you choose to swim, SCDES recommends scoping out the area prior to entering the water. If the bloom is observed, look for areas free of the bloom.
For the latest updates and more information about HAB, including a map with HAB monitoring information, visit the harmful algal blooms section of the SCDES website.