The Coast Guard Northwest District is urging commercial mariners, recreational boaters and coastal visitors across the Pacific Northwest to prepare for the heavy weather season, noting that many accidents on the water and along the shoreline are preventable.
On the water, the Coast Guard recommends wearing a life jacket (drowning accounts for 76 percent of boating deaths), checking bar conditions before crossing, filing a float plan, carrying a working VHF radio or waterproof communication device on your person, and reviewing weather, tide and current forecasts before departure. Crossing a closed or restricted bar without Captain of the Port authorization is prohibited under federal law. Bar status is broadcast on VHF-FM channels 16 and 22A.
Along the coast, beachgoers are warned about sneaker waves, rolling drift logs, waves washing over jetties, and cold water that can incapacitate a person within minutes. Mariners in distress should hail the Coast Guard on VHF-FM Channel 16 or dial 911.
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Original Article from Tillamook County Pioneer | Written by Tillamook County Pioneer Staff
