Beach enthusiast and boaters urged to take weather warnings seriously.

LOS ANGELES "A strong storm currently moving across the Gulf of Alaska will generate a large northwest swell that will spread into Northern California waters Saturday. Breaking waves of 18 to 20 feet will be possible along west and northwest facing beaches Saturday afternoon into Sunday. Seas will reach their maximum heights Sunday morning before subsiding into early next week," warns the National Weather Service. At this time of year and for the next few months storm weather warnings like this one are common.

The Coast Guard Auxiliary strongly recommends that people avoid going near beaches or other low-lying coastal areas, especially jetties and rocky areas during periods of severe weather and high surf. Large waves can quickly and unexpectedly sweep a person from these areas. Even the strongest swimmers can quickly be overtaken by the power of the sea, especially when the cold-water temperatures are factored in.

Though the large waves can be an extreme sight to some the risk to life is too great during these conditions. Just last week six people were swept of rocks by a wave in Southern California, three of them died.

The Coast Guard Auxiliary also strongly urges boaters to avoid taking to the water during periods of severe or even moderate weather conditions - moderate weather can quickly and unexpectedly become severe weather. If it is necessary to get underway mariners are urged to check that all of their safety equipment is in good condition.

There must be a life jacket onboard for each person, sized accordingly. If boaters will be traveling offshore, it is strongly recommended that there be an immersion suit or other full-body protection, as water temperatures will be cold, and hypothermia can quickly overtake the average person.

All boaters should also make certain that they have a working marine VHF radio on board to contact the Coast Guard on channel 16 should an emergency arise. Boaters are also urged to file a float plan with a friend or family member on land, with an approximate time of return and location to which you will be heading. (www.floatplancentral.org)

Mariners should check current and forecasted weather conditions prior to getting underway, and remain aware of changing conditions once on the water. The National Weather Service broadcasts weather conditions throughout the day on VHF channel WX2.

As the storm season for much of the continental United States begins, boaters should check the status of mooring and anchor lines, and replace worn lines if necessary. During strong winds and heavy seas, vessels can come loose from the pier or anchor due to worn lines, or not having enough lines attached to the pier or having a heavy enough anchor.

Vessels adrift can become hazardous to nearby vessels as they are tossed about, and can become hazards to navigation once the storm has passed. These vessels can also pose environmental risk as any fluids or chemicals onboard can spill or leak should the vessel break apart.

For more information on boating safety and required and recommended safety equipment, please visit www.uscgboating.org. For more information on weather conditions, please visit www.weather.gov.

(In from the US Coast Guard)