HOUSTON – The Coast Guard is urging the maritime community and boating public to track Tropical Storm Alex’s progress and take early action to protect themselves and their vessels. Extremely high seas, heavy rains and damaging winds that accompany tropical storms and hurricanes present serious dangers to mariners.
Dangerous weather conditions generated by a hurricane can cover an area hundreds of miles wide. Even those recreational boaters and the maritime industry that fall outside of the direct path of the storm are advised to be aware of dangerous weather conditions and take appropriate precautions to stay safe and minimize damage.
Here are a few tips to help mariners protect themselves, their families and their vessels:
- If your local authorities issue an evacuation notice, take heed and know the evacuation routes.
- Do not go out to sea in a recreational boat if you know a tropical system is approaching.
- Contact local marinas to ask for advice about securing your vessel. Marina operators are knowledgeable and can advise you on the best methods for securing your boat.
- Take action now. The effects of a hurricane can be felt well in advance of the storm itself and can prevent the safe completion of preparations.
- After the storm passes, check with local authorities before entering any storm-damaged area. Do not rush to your boat – boater owners should not place themselves in danger in order to survey damage.
- Do not try to reach your boat if it has been forced into the water and is surrounded by debris. Wait until authorities have made safe access available. Do not try to board a partially sunken boat; seek salvage assistance from a professional.
Storms move quickly and are unpredictable. Remember, you can always replace a boat; you cannot replace a life. Boaters and coastal residents can get storm and hurricane information from VHF marine radios, commercial radio, television stations, newspapers and NOAA weather radios.
