Contact:  Betty Zoellner

 Flotilla Commander 3-13 8WR USCGAUX

    District Staff Officer - Public Affairs

 bcz@charter.net 

314-852-2909

September 15, 2008

 

For Immediate Release:

Rains From Ike Raise Rivers – Caution Advised

 

The torrential rains that the remnants of Hurricane Ike dropped across the region this past weekend have begun raising the rivers once again to significant levels; with crests forecast to be at or near the high levels of earlier this summer.

 

While no closures have yet been announced, recreational boaters should note that safety advisories have been issued and hazards exist which should be considered before planning any boating excursions on the rivers in the near future.

 

The sudden rise in river levels, as we are presently experiencing, produces swift and strong currents.  Commercial tows will be operating more slowly, and their maneuverability and responsiveness will be diminished.  Aids to navigation may be swept off station.  Debris will be abundant, and hazards normally visible above water may now be submerged.

 

The Coast Guard Auxiliary recommends that recreational boaters avoid venturing out during these conditions.  Please consider delaying your cruise, or tow the boat to safer waters.

 

While the water conditions of the 2008 Boating Season have been frustrating, safety should always be your first concern.  Boat responsibly.

 

Whether you are interested in joining the Auxiliary, or would just like to learn more about the services offered to the boating public such as Safe Boating Classes and Vessel Safety Checks, information is available on the web at www.uscgauxflotilla3-13.org or www.cgaux.org – or you can contact the Flotilla Commander at bcz@charter.net or 314-852-2909.

 

The United States Coast Guard Auxiliary is composed of uniformed, non-military volunteer civilians who assist the Coast Guard in all of its varied missions, except for military and direct law enforcement.  These men and women can be found on the nation’s waterways, in classrooms and on the dock, performing safety patrols, vessel safety examinations and public education.  The 28,000 members of the Coast Guard Auxiliary donate millions of hours annually in support of Coast Guard missions.