Sheriff's Marine Enforcement Unit Out in Force This Weekend

Boaters are advised to be on their best behavior this weekend.

The Hillsborough County Sheriff's Office Marine Enforcement Unit will kick off the 2013 boating season by conducting vessel inspections at boat ramps and on the waterways at several marinas throughout the county during the Memorial Day Weekend.

The Marine Enforcement Unit will initially deploy at various marinas (exact marina to be determined) during the peak launch hours and provide boaters with a Hillsborough Bay Boater's Guide, which contains boaters tips, speed restrictions, areas of special interest, mangrove and salt marsh wetlands, as well as a map of Hillsborough Bay.

Later in the day, HCSO marine deputies will commence water patrols to help educate vessel operators on the required safety equipment for their vessel and reinforce the wearing of life vests by younger boaters. Deputies also will look for boaters operating their vessel while under the influence or impaired.