Heads-Up Shoreline Mariners, Coast Guard Says Stay Off Water

NEW HAVEN, CT — While the Coast Guard set Port Condition X-Ray for all commercial waterways in Long Island Sound ahead of Tropical Storm Henri, it also noted its recommendations for all boaters due to the expectation of gale force winds expected to arrive within 48 hours.

Tropical storm force winds are likely east of New York City, across Long Island and Southern Connecticut. Tropical storm and hurricane watches have been set for Connecticut and Long Island by the National Weather Service.

All mariners are encouraged to use all means available to monitor the path of Tropical Storm Henri and remain prepared to take action as the system progresses. In addition, the Coast Guard is advising the public of these important safety messages:

Stay off the water. The Coast Guard’s search and rescue capabilities degrade as storm conditions strengthen. This means help could be delayed. Boaters should heed weather watches, warnings, and small craft advisories.

Secure belongings. Owners of large boats are urged to move their vessels to inland marinas where they will be less vulnerable to breaking free of their moorings or to sustaining damage. Trailer-able boats should be pulled from the water and stored in a place that is not prone to flooding. Those who are leaving their boats in the water are reminded to remove EPIRBs and to secure life rings, lifejackets, and small boats. These items, if not properly secured, can break free and require valuable search and rescue resources be diverted to ensure people are not in distress.

Stay clear of beaches. Wave heights and currents typically increase before a storm makes landfall. Even the best swimmers can fall victim to the strong waves and rip currents caused by tropical storms or hurricanes. Swimmers should stay clear of beaches until local lifeguards and law enforcement officials say the water is safe.