ANNAPOLIS, Md. (AP) — Maryland state officials are warning boaters not to ride out Hurricane Sandy aboard their vessels.

The Department of Natural Resources says boaters who can put their vessels on trailers should move them to high ground.

Boats that will remain docked should have mooring lines twice the diameter of normal lines. And lines should be doubled, using several cleats to distribute the load evenly on the boat. As much line as possible should be used to allow for storm surge. All articles on deck should also be removed and electric and water lines should be disconnected.

Batteries should also be charged and bilge pumps checked to make sure they are working. Preparations should be completed 48 hours before the storm arrives so boaters can concentrate on their families and homes.

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