Crisfield Business, Boaters Prepare For Hurricane Sandy - WMDT 47 News - Delmarva's Choice

CRISFIELD, Md. - The Eastern Shore braces for the hurricane that some are calling "the perfect storm."

"I hope that this doesn't catch us off guard," said Eugene Evans, owner of Evans Boats.    

Maryland Governor Martin O'Malley declares a state of emergency as the late-season hurricane approaches.  But compared to last year's scare with Hurricane Irene Evans sees a complete 180 for resident preparation.

"Last year it was very, very busy. This year, we're not seeing the people taking is as serious as it could be."

Evans owns a boating shop.  Last year, he said his property was completely filled up.  This year, his lot is half empty.    

But for those worried about the storm, Evans and his workers are ready to help.

"We've been pulling some boats, pulled a few of the watermen that just don't want to take that chance."

With Hurricane Sandy quickly approaching, some boaters in Crisfield are taking a chance by leaving their boats in the water.

"It's probably better to have it pulled out," said Robert Anger.  "The boat's a little bit large to trailer, so it's just as easy for us to tie it [onto the dock]."    

Anger's boat is docked at a floating pier on the Chesapeake Bay at Somers Cove Marina, giving him slack when the tide comes in.  But what will happen with a high storm surge from Sandy?

"If the tide is four-feet above normal and they only got that three-feet of line, it's going to pull them under," said Ken Sterling, a worker at the marina.

Other businesses in Crisfield, including George's are starting to board up their stores.     Somerset County Emergency Management said they will continue to post bulletins for all residents as Hurricane Sandy nears.