Cookies

A cookie is a small text file that the website you visit saves on your computer. Cookies are used on many websites to give visitors access to various functions. The information in the cookie can be used to monitor a user's surfing. If you want to avoid cookies you can set your browser to automatically refuse cookies or to inform you that a website contains cookies.

There are two types of cookies. One kind, persistent cookies, stores a file for an extended period on your computer. It is used for functions that inform you what is new since you last visited the website. The second type of cookie is called a session cookie. While you are surfing on a page, this cookie is stored temporarily in your computer's memory to keep track of what language you have chosen, for example. Session cookies are not stored for a long period of time on your computer, but rather disappear when you close your browser.

Cookies on The Coast Guard's Website

The Coast Guard's website mainly uses persistent cookies, but session cookies are used as well. See also the link to the right.

Avoid Cookies

If you want to avoid cookies you can set your browser to automatically refuse cookies or to inform you that a website contains cookies. For more information about how to do this, see your browser's help section.