The Coast Guard is issuing a caution to mariners and recreational boaters in the U.S. Virgin Islands and Puerto Rico as Tropical Storm Erika nears.
“Recreational boaters and anyone conducting water-related activities should avoid areas of high surf and stay away from shoreline rocks, levees and river beds until the tropical storm passes and weather and surf conditions normalize throughout the area,” San Juan Coast Guard commander Capt. Robert Warren said in a statement.
“Monitoring the weather and understanding the dangers associated with the high sea conditions and tropical storm force winds forecasted before, during, and after the storm could save your life and property,” he said.
Vessels and facility operators, recreational boaters, swimmers and people conducting activities in the ocean should pay close attention and monitor this situation through updated National Weather Service advisories and take appropriate action to minimize the risks associated with these predicted conditions.
The group issued a few tips to help mariners protect themselves, their families and their vessels:
- Do not go out to sea in a recreational boat if you know a tropical storm 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 tropical storm can be felt well in advance of the storm itself and can prevent the safe completion of preparations.
This post originally appeared here.
