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The Honolulu Advertiser
Posted on: Monday, August 10, 2009

U.S. Coast Guard stresses awareness as Felicia approaches

Advertiser Staff

ON THE WEB

U.S. Coast Guard Storm Center: www.uscg.mil/news/stormcenter/

U.S. Coast Guard Boating Safety Division: www.uscgboating.org/

National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration: www.prh.noaa.gov/hnl/

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HONOLULU — The U.S. Coast Guard is urging all mariners to practice safe boating and be prepared for tropical storm Felicia.

Coast Guard crews here have issued safety alerts, known as a Broadcast Notice to Mariners, to both recreational and commercial boaters throughout the Hawaiian Islands. The notices advise boat owners to either seek sheltered waters or make plans for departing their respective port.

Additionally, crews from Air Station Barbers Point have made pre-storm harbor survey flights over Maui and the Big Island ensuring critical infrastructure and boats are secure. Crews will continue to provide assessment flights through Tuesday.

Coast Guard Auxiliary crews are also out in the community ensuring recreational boaters are prepared.

Here are some tips for mariners:

  • If you live or boat in an area prone to hurricanes or heavy weather, know your local and national weather sources and monitor them continuously. Get into the habit of reading weather signs and monitoring the weather.
  • Contact local marinas and ask for advice. You will find marina operators knowledgeable and helpful. They can advise you on the best methods for securing your boat.
  • Remove small boats from the water and move them to a secure location. Ensure the trailer and boat are secured above likely flood areas. Remove all loose items. Ensure the boat is tied securely to the trailer.
  • If your boat is too large to be removed from the water, move it to a safe haven well before the storm approaches. You should know where safe havens are in the area where you boat.


    Mariners in distress should contact the Coast Guard here via VHF channel 16 or by calling Coast Guard Sector Honolulu at 842-2600.