The Coast Guard station in Charleston put out a warning for swimmers and boaters to stay off and out of ocean waters along the South Carolina coastline until Hurricane Sandy has passed and sea conditions return to normal.
The Coast Guard anticipates heavy seas, dangerous rip currents, significant rain and damaging winds will present serious dangers to boaters and swimmers.
They say boaters should take necessary precautions to ensure their personal safety because of strong, gusty winds associated with the outer weather bands of the storm.
The Coast Guards also want boaters to secure vessels already in the water before the severe weather arrives, including using additional mooring lines, and secure gear.
If loose gear floats away, someone could mistake it for a boating accident and trigger an unnecessary search.
