To learn what you can do to boat safely, SCDNR will hold free boating safety seminars at the 46th Annual Boat Show at the S.C. State Fairgrounds in Columbia this weekend.

The S.C. Department of Natural Resources (DNR) wants all boaters and water sports enthusiasts to boat safely by using lifesaving equipment, not drinking alcohol while operating a boat, obeying the law and being aware of others in and around the water.

Lt. Wagers, DNR Hunting and Boating Education coordinator, noted there were 29 boating fatalities in 2008 as compared to 16 in 2007.

The boat show will also have wall-to-wall boats and accessories packed in all six buildings at the State Fairgrounds. Runabouts, sport boats, fishing boats, cruisers, personal watercraft, jet boats, and high-performance boats — everything from 12′ – 30′ will be ready to board and buy. Admission is only $6 for adults and $2 for children under 12.

Remember to wear your lifejacket while boating and enjoying water sports. Life jackets save lives. 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.

“Three B’s of boating: boat safe, boat smart and boat sober, don’t put your life on the line. Think safety.” – Lt. Jim Wagers, SCDNR.