Preparation Advice for Approaching Storms

Week of September 15, 2008

The Coast Guard advises mariners and others to take the following precautions when preparing for approaching tropical storms and hurricanes: (1) Stay off of the water. The Coast Guard's search and rescue capabilities degrade as storm conditions strengthen, which means help could be delayed; (2) secure your boat and belongings. Owners of larger boats are urged to move their boats to inland marinas. Smaller boats should be pulled from the water; (3) stay clear of beaches and low-lying areas; (4) stay informed through local television, radio and Internet. For information on a tropical storm or hurricane's progress, visit the National Hurricane Center's webpage. For more information on hurricane and severe storm preparedness, visit the U.S. Coast Guard Storm Center.