All state parks and historic sites are scheduled to be shut down at noon on Sunday in preparation for the arrival of Hurricane Sandy, Department of Environmental Protection Commissioner Bob Martin announced today.

According to Martin, safety concerns are forcing the closure and those who are camping now at state facilities across the state are being advised to prepare to leave those sites by mid-day Sunday.

Martin also said those with reservations for next week are advised that parks may be closed through the entire week. Persons with reservations will be called by DEP personnel to reschedule their visits to state parks.

After the storm passes through the state, the parks and historic sites will be assessed and re-opened on a case-by-case basis.

Information will be provided at the DEP’s Division of Parks and Forestry web site. Also on the DEP’s Hurricane Sandy Information website.

Information can also be found on the Parks Facebook page.