Isle of Palms, S.C. — As Labor Day weekend approaches, Isle of Palms is gearing up for large crowds and busy days filled with beachgoers, tourists, and local residents. Law enforcement and local businesses are making the final preparations to ensure a safe and enjoyable holiday for all.
Increased Law Enforcement Presence
With the influx of visitors expected over the weekend, law enforcement is staffing up to keep everyone safe. Isle of Palms Chief of Police Kevin Cornett highlighted the department’s increased presence:
“We’ll have people out here patrolling the beach while people are patrolling the roads. We’ll be here to help you if you call or if you need anything.”
The biggest concern for the police during busy holiday weekends is drunk driving. Chief Cornett emphasized the importance of having a plan in place, reminding everyone that if they choose to drink, they should not drive:
“We are out here for Operation Silver Slammer, and we will be out here enforcing DUI’s. Don’t drink and drive.”
Local Businesses Ready for the Rush
Local businesses, including The Windjammer and Papi’s Taqueria, are also preparing for the busy weekend.
Jeff Chaffin, an employee of The Windjammer, said they are stocking up on supplies and organizing staff to accommodate the expected crowd:
“We stock what we can get, get the troops in line, and ready for it.”
Similarly, Dorian Padilla of Papi’s Taqueria shared excitement about the holiday weekend and the increased tourist traffic:
“This weekend is usually really busy for us because we are ready for it. I’m looking forward to the outdoors, especially people from other states. They love the South.”
A Busy End to the Summer Season
For both locals and tourists, Labor Day weekend marks the end of summer, and businesses are hoping to make the most of it before the off-season arrives. Both Chaffin and Padilla expressed their enthusiasm for the weekend ahead:
“It’s always good to see, everybody come out, laughing, smiling faces, people having a good time. It’ll be a great weekend,” said Chaffin.
A Call for Responsibility and Fun
As the weekend draws closer, both police and business owners are urging visitors to enjoy their time responsibly. While the goal is for everyone to have fun, there’s also a focus on safety. If you plan to drink, make sure to have a designated driver or use rideshare services to get home safely.
