Marine Deputies To Conduct Free Boat Safety Equipment Inspections

PINELLAS PARK, FL -- The Pinellas County Sheriff's Office Marine Unit will conduct free boat safety inspections this weekend at two Pinellas County boat ramps.

Marine deputies will offer safety equipment checks on Saturday, June 23, from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. at the Fort Desoto Park boat ramp at 3500 Pinellas Bayway S., Tierra Verde, and Sunday, June 24, from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. at the Pinellas War Veterans Memorial Park boat ramp at 9600 Bay Pines Blvd., St. Petersburg.

Deputies will check for:

* Correct number of life jackets - there needs to be a personal flotation device for each passenger on board and it must be size appropriate

* Throw cushions

* Flares

* Fire extinguisher

The number of items required depends on the size and the vessel and the distance it travels.

Boats that are in full compliance will receive a sticker from a marine unit deputy. If it is determined that the vessel is not in compliance, deputies will educate the boat operator about the missing equipment.

For additional, contact the Pinellas County Sheriff's Office Marine Unit at (727) 582-6200.

Image via Pinellas Sheriff