PHILADELPHIA – The Coast Guard Captain of the Port Sector Delaware Bay in Philadelphia has set ice condition two Saturday and is warning mariners to be aware of ice in the Delaware Bay and River.
The Captain of the Port Sector Delaware Bay is notifying mariners that ice condition two has been set. This means that there have been reports of ice formation throughout the Captain of the Port Zone. All masters, ship agents, and owners and operators of all vessels, marine facilities and marinas should review and adhere to the following ice condition two procedures for the Delaware River and C & D Canal:
Specific Restrictions for the C & D Canal:
- Only steel-hulled may transit the canal.
- Vessels already moored in the C & D canal should frequently check to ensure the vessel is adequately tied up.
There are no specific restrictions for the Delaware River, however the following procedures should be considered to ensure safety of your vessel:
- Vessel moorings should be checked frequently to ensure the vessel is adequately moored.
- Vessels at anchor should maintain their engines on standby at all times.
- Vessels at anchor should ensure that proper bridge watches are stood at all times.
- Vessel sea chests should be checked regularly for ice buildup and precautions should be taken to ensure that the sea chests are kept clear.
The Captain of the Port Sector Delaware Bay may establish additional requirements for specific geographic areas of the Captain of the Port Zone if conditions warrant such restrictions.
For additional information regarding ice operations within the Sector Delaware Bay zone visit http://www.uscg.mil/d5/sectDelawarebay or call the Sector Delaware Bay ice line at 215 271-4995.
