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FWC says take precautions and be
careful before and during storm
August 18, 2008
Contact: Carol Pratt 850-251-2212
The Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation
Commission (FWC) urged potential thrill-seekers today to stay
out of the water as Tropical Storm Fay heads toward Florida’s
coast. The FWC also urged boat-owners to secure their vessels
well ahead of the approaching tropical storm.
“Tropical Storm Fay is a potentially dangerous
storm and could become a hurricane before making landfall in
Florida,” FWC law enforcement director, Col. Julie Jones, said.
“Everyone has a responsibility to make sure their families and
neighbors are safe and to act responsibly during this event. For
surfers, windsurfers, swimmers and others seeking the thrill of
high waves and high winds, I urge them to stay away from and out
of the water. Rip currents, high waves, storm surges and water
spouts are dangerous and prevalent during a tropical storm.”
She said vessel owners should moor boats
securely. Florida is often overwhelmed with damaged boats left
in the water after storm events which create navigational
hazards.
“Boat owners have a duty to take precautions to
secure their vessels, so people aren’t hurt and property not
damaged by an unsecured boat,” Jones said.
If boat owners trailer their boats, the FWC
recommends they let some air out of the trailer tires, block the
wheels, and put some water inside the boat to add weight and
help keep the boat in place.”
More information and links to U.S. Coast Guard
and BoatUS Web sites are available online at
MyFWC.com/boating/.
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