The Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission (FWC) urged potential thrill-seekers today to stay out of the water as Tropical Storm Fay heads toward Florida's coast. The FWC also urged boat-owners to secure their vessels well ahead of the approaching tropical storm.

"Tropical Storm Fay is a potentially dangerous storm and could become a hurricane before making landfall in Florida," FWC law enforcement director, Col. Julie Jones, said. "Everyone has a responsibility to make sure their families and neighbors are safe and to act responsibly during this event. For surfers, windsurfers, swimmers and others seeking the thrill of high waves and high winds, I urge them to stay away from and out of the water. Rip currents, high waves, storm surges and water spouts are dangerous and prevalent during a tropical storm."

She said vessel owners should moor boats securely. Florida is often overwhelmed with damaged boats left in the water after storm events which create navigational hazards.

"Boat owners have a duty to take precautions to secure their vessels, so people aren't hurt and property not damaged by an unsecured boat," Jones said.

If boat owners trailer their boats, the FWC recommends they let some air out of the trailer tires, block the wheels, and put some water inside the boat to add weight and help keep the boat in place."

More information and links to U.S. Coast Guard and BoatUS Web sites are available online at MyFWC.com/boating/.