SAN DIEGO — The U.S. Coast Guard is urging boaters and beachgoers to exercise caution while enjoying water activities this Labor Day weekend.
High volumes of people are expected to take to the water and beaches as Labor Day marks the unofficial end of summer.
Hazardous beach conditions caused by Tropical Storm Marie are expected to diminish Thursday and Friday, but beachgoers are encouraged to talk to a lifeguard before swimming and to obey posted warning signs and flags.
Swimmers should be especially wary of rip currents and know how to identify and escape from them.
“San Diego’s waters are an ideal place to enjoy the holiday weekend,” said Capt. Jonathan Spaner, commander of U.S. Coast Guard Sector San Diego. “However, the warm climate we enjoy here should not make people complacent. Being prepared and having a reliable way to call for help in an emergency are keys to having a safe and fun holiday weekend.”
Important ways to stay safe on the water include:
* Stay Informed - The public should be aware of weather conditions and monitor the progress and strength of storms through local television, radio and internet. Check the current and expected weather and water conditions before heading out, and be aware that weather conditions can quickly change.
* Wear life jackets while on the water. In 2013, 84% of boating-related drowning victims were not wearing life jackets.
* File a float plan with friends, family members or local marinas before heading out. The list should include the number of passengers aboard the vessel, vessel's destination and expected time of return.
* Always have a working VHF-FM radio aboard; cell phones are not reliable once underway.
* Boat sober. Alcohol is the leading known contributing factor in boating accidents. Not only is boating under the influence dangerous, someone found guilty of it can be fined thousands of dollars and be sentenced to time in jail.
* Carry marine flares and flashlights aboard the vessel to increase visibility in the event of an emergency.
For more information on current beach hazards, follow this link: http://forecast.weather.gov/showsigwx.php?warnzone=CAZ043&warncounty=CAC073&firewxzone=CAZ243&local_place1=San%20Diego%20CA&product1=Beach+Hazards+Statement&lat=32.71877&lon=-117.16247#.U_9ut7xdUeM
For information on rip currents follow this link: http://www.ripcurrents.noaa.gov/overview.shtml