LANSING, Mich. (WSYM) -- Memorial Day weekend is the first time many Michiganders hit the lakes and rivers. For Ingham County Sheriff's Marine Unit, its also time to patrol.
"We're not there to write tickets, we're there for safety. We're there to make sure everybody goes home safe," Sgt. Weiss of the Ingham County Sheriff's office said.
That includes a lot more that just riding around in a cool boat. Sgt. Jeff Weiss also inspects peoples watercrafts in addition educating the public on boat safety.
"A lot of people don't know the general rules and requirements that are out there, so just review those," he said.
Alcohol on boats is anther issue that Sgt. Weiss says can be a problem, espescially on holiday weekends. Although it may be easy to kick back with a cold one while out on the water, it's best not to do so. Believe it or not, you can still get busted with an OWI while getting behing the wheel of a boat.
"Its the same laws as operating a vehicle. Its the same blood alcohol level, 0.08 percent. However, on a watercraft we suggest if you are operating one, do not drink," Sgt. Weiss said.
It doesn't matter if you're boating, kayaking, swimming, or just catching some rays, Sgt. Weiss and the Ingham County Sheriff's Office want you to make sure you're doing it safely. And if they aren't around to help, help one another.
"Help each other, if you see another vessel in distress, help them out. If you see an accident between two watercrafts, stop and help. Help each other be safe," Sgt. Weiss said.
Click here for Michigan boating rules and regulations.
