Stay safe during the holiday weekend, especially on the lakes

Lake users will have fun and relaxation on their minds when they crowd area lakes over July the 4th. Law enforcement, however, takes its job seriously when it fans out to make sure that the all of the fun and other activities are safe for everyone. Local and area officers gathered today at the Big Oaks recreation area on the Georgia side of Lake Hartwell. Shaun Lawler of the South Carolina DNR had this message for all boaters: “Be courteous to other boaters….Drive on the right side (of the water) up and down.” He says lifejackets should be accessible and alcohol is discouraged. Corp. Minyard of the Oconee Sheriff’s Office stresses personal safety and notes that so far, in the short outdoor season, there has been one drowning in the county, in Lake Keowee.