Coast Guard urges caution as hurricane approaches Northeast

NEW YORK - With Hurricane Earl expected to pass along the Atlantic Coast this weekend, the Coast Guard is stressing the importance of safety for boaters and swimmers.

Coast Guard search and rescue capabilities may be severely degraded during a hurricane.

The Coast Guard urges the boating public to stay informed by monitoring storm progress via local television, radio and internet news programs. Boaters can monitor storm progress on VHF channel 16, which provides small craft advisories and warnings to boaters.

Be sure to secure your belongings; boat owners are urged to double-check their mooring lines and secure life rings, life jackets and other loose items, preventing their boat or equipment from breaking free and causing damage.

As Hurricane Earl approaches it may create dangers in the water, such as large waves, rip currents and undertows capable of dragging swimmers away from the beach.

Whenever possible, swim at a lifeguard-protected beach. If caught in a rip current, remain calm. Don't fight the current. Instead, swim in a direction following the shoreline. When out of the current, swim toward shore or a boat. If you are unable to swim out of the rip current, float or calmly tread water. If you are still unable to reach shore, draw attention to yourself by facing the shore or boat, waving your arms, and yelling for help.

Be cautious with hazardous materials; if you have hazardous materials on or near the water, you are responsible for any spills that may occur. Take the necessary precautions to secure them prior to any heavy weather.

Mariners are reminded that drawbridges along the coast may deviate from normal operating procedures prior to a storm. They are generally authorized to remain closed up to eight hours prior to the approach of gale-force winds of 34 knots or greater, and whenever an evacuation is ordered.

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