The Coast Guard urges mariners and residents in Maine and New Hampshire to stay off the water as the heavy weather moves through Northern New England.

"Be prepared, stay informed, and heed storm warnings. Don’t put yourself at risk if you don’t have to.," said Capt. Michael Baroody, Sector Commander for Sector Northern New England, in a Feb. 13 news release. “The especially hazardous weather may delay response times for local, state, and federal first responders.”

The Coast Guard recommends the public remember these guidelines: Stay informed, always use caution, stay clear of hazardous beach and coastal areas, and if you are going out, tell someone.

Even the best swimmers and experienced fishermen can fall victim to the strong waves, winds, and currents caused by heavy weather. Surfers and paddlecraft are strongly urged to stay clear of beaches until the rough weather has passed. Individuals fishing along breakwalls, beaches, or jetties are strongly urged to exercise caution and evaluate the risks associated with fishing along coastal areas that may experience high winds and breaking waves.