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Boating safety tips unveiled in N.J. post-Sandy

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Boaters may encounter debris in the water in the wake of superstorm Sandy, so be careful this boating season, according to the state.

The N.J. Department of Environmental Protection has unveiled a Jersey Shore Open for Boating flyer, FAQs for boaters and a new Sandy Waterway Debris Resources website.

Waterway debris includes cars, buildings, docks, boardwalks, abandoned vessels, pilings, household items and trees, according to the FAQs.

Not all waterway debris has been found and debris that has been identified can move around, according to the FAQs.

Be especially careful in bays behind the barrier islands, Raritan Bay, southern New York bay, Newark Bay, Delaware Bay, near-coastal waters and shallower waters, the FAQs say.

"Governor Christie is committed to ensuring that coastal communities are open for tourism and recreation this summer," the flyer says. "The State is removing storm-related debris and sand from its waterways throughout coastal New Jersey and our storm-impacted bays. Cleanup likely will continue into the fall."

"Superstorm Sandy was extremely destructive and you may encounter hazards in the water, so use caution," the flyer says.

Here are some flyer (and FAQs) tips on being "a responsible boater":

- Stay in navigation channels or deeper water.

- Go slower and use a lookout as if you're in uncharted waters.

- Stay away from areas marked as dangerous. Be on the lookout for debris that might be there but isn't marked.

- Always wear a life jacket.

- Stay away from debris removal and dredging operations.

Be aware of:

- The fact that existing navigation charts and GPS data may not reflect actual conditions.

- Shifted channels, new shoals, altered bottom contours and changes in waterway depths.

- Floating or submerged debris and vegetation.

To report debris in the water, call the DEP at 1-877-WARN-DEP. Call the National Response Center at 1-800-424-8802 if you see oil or chemical pollution, according to the flyer.


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