People on the shoreline are closely monitoring Hurricane Jose, waiting to see if they’ll stay in its path.
“Right now we’re taking a wait and see approach,” said Garrett Enman, dock master at Three Belles Marina.
While Jose is definitely on his radar, Enman said its severity can determine how the marina reacts. It could be as simple as making sure lines are securely fastened, or taking boats out of the water.
“It's been watched, but it has not been treated nowhere near the concern of Irma. We had staff meetings regarding Irma and (were) ready to go, and remind people what to do with their boat,” said Don MacKenzie, president of Boats Incorporated.
That hasn’t been the case with Jose, but MacKenzie said he did get a few calls to pull boats. If necessary, his crews will continue to do so until it gets dangerous.
Most boaters are waiting for that call to take action.
“Warning versus a watch. And that’s last minute,” David Miko said.
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East Lyme Emergency Management is taking no chances.
Director Richard Morris said he’s already been in touch with counterparts in different communities since East Lyme hosts a seven-town shelter at East Lyme Middle School.
They are also warning residents to take precautions with items like outside furniture.
“Hunker them down so there’s not objects blowing around, put the gas grill away, and have flashlights, batteries and things of that nature,” Morris said.
Other tips include moving cars inside a garage or secure location and keeping trees around a home trimmed.
Stonington’s Director of Emergency Management George Brennan said he’ll meet with emergency personnel Monday to assess the situation.
In New London, AW Marina staff already advised people to double tie their boats or move them out of the water beginning Sunday and Monday.
