BERKELEY COUNTY, S.C. – Although anecdotal reports from AAA suggest fewer people will hit the road this Memorial Day weekend, local law enforcement won’t be slowing down patrols during the three-day holiday. For them, it’s business as usual.
The National Safety Council estimates that 366 people could die on U.S. roads this Memorial Day holiday period. To keep you safe, the Berkeley County Sheriff’s Office, along with various other agencies will be stepping up patrols.
“All of the agencies will have one thing in common this weekend, keeping you safe,” the Berkeley County Sheriff’s Office posted on Facebook. “Berkeley County residents can expect to see extra deputies as we work hard to keep you safe this weekend.”
According to the South Carolina Department of Public Safety, eight people died on South Carolina roads last year during the Memorial Day weekend. There were eight fatalities during the 2018 Memorial Day travel period as well.
While AAA predicts fewer people could hit the road, South Carolina Highway Patrol is prepping for an increase in traffic over the three-day holiday.
“We do anticipate that we may see a little more traffic out on our roadways. And as such, the Highway Patrol, we are preparing for that,” Trooper Matt Southern told WCBD-TV. “We are going to have additional troopers out on our roadways for the entire Memorial Day weekend to make sure that everybody is safe.”
Every day, about ten people die from unintentional drowning, according to the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. As people head to Lake Moultrie and the Cooper River this weekend, the potential for water accidents is real. That’s why officers will not only have a heavy presence on the highways but the waterways, too.
“Don’t forget your life-vest for the boat,” the Berkeley County Sheriff’s Office stressed.
Water Safety Tips From SCDNR:
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