The Okaloosa County Sheriff’s Office is urging boaters to slow down and keep a sharp lookout for debris as they return to local waterways after Hurricane Isaias.
The Sheriff’s Office Marine Unit patrolled local waterways again this week, looking for hazardous debris and other dangers below the surface or floating in the area’s bay, bayous, Sound and Gulf, according to the agency.
Floating lumber, damaged docks, submerged objects and other debris can pose serious hazards to boaters, the Sheriff’s Office said.
“Even after the winds die down, storm dangers can stick around,” the agency wrote.
Safety tips for boaters
The Sheriff’s Office offered these tips for boaters heading back out:
- Slow down. Give yourself extra time to spot and avoid hazards.
- Keep a sharp lookout. Debris may be difficult to see, especially in choppy water or low light.
- Give damaged structures room. Stay well clear of damaged docks, navigation markers and other storm-damaged structures.
The Marine Unit will continue working to help keep waterways safer, according to the Sheriff’s Office.
