Hurricane Irene: Ocean City Emergency Management Statement

The following special announcement was issued by the Ocean City Office of Emergency Management at 12:10 p.m. Thursday, Aug. 25. It and future updates will be posted on the city's website at ocnj.us. "The Ocean City Office of Emergency Management recommends that residents and visitors closely monitor weather conditions and forecasts in order to stay informed about the track and possible effects of Hurricane Irene. Up to date information can be viewed on the Weather Channel (Channel 61 on the Comcast Cable System) or through other local media outlets. Information is also available on line at: www.erh.noaa.gov/er/phi. Check back here often for any required updates.  The Ocean City Beach Patrol reminds residents and visitors that there we are currently experiencing very rough surf and there is a strong probability of dangerous rip tides in the ocean. Please be safe and swim only at guarded beaches. For updated guarded beach information please call 609-814-9283 (WAVE). The Ocean City Beach Patrol requests all Hobie Cat / Sailboat owners to pull their boats as far back on the beach as possible or remove them by the end of the day Friday. Residents, visitors and business owners are encouraged to use Friday to make appropriate storm preparations for the effects of Hurricane Irene. Remove or secure loose objects on porches and around properties in anticipation of high winds on Saturday into Sunday. Contractors are requested to properly secure all work sites prior to the end of the day Friday. Remove all loose debris and materials that may become a problem in the event of high winds or flooding. Persons in areas of Ocean City that typically experience flooding during storm events should plan to move their vehicles to higher ground by Saturday morning."