File photo (MGN)Provided:
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.
