CHARLESTON, S.C. — Coast Guard Sector Charleston is strongly urging boaters and swimmers to stay off and out of ocean waters along the Ga., and S.C., coastlines until the expected Hurricane Sandy has passed and sea conditions return to normal.
Heavy seas, dangerous rip currents, significant rain and damaging winds present serious dangers to boaters and swimmers.
Boaters should take necessary precautions to ensure their personal safety due to strong gusty winds associated with the outer weather bands of the storm.
The Coast Guard also reminds boaters to secure their vessel before the severe weather arrives. Adding additional mooring lines is highly recommended.
Boaters should also ensure that any gear above the vessel’s deck be properly stowed and secured. Loose gear or an unsecured boat could appear as a debris field and could trigger an unnecessary search by the Coast Guard.
The Coast Guard requests that the public not call Coast Guard facilities for weather information, but to listen to weather broadcasts. Important storm information can also be viewed via the National Hurricane Center website.
