KENNEBUNKPORT — Boaters needing foghorn assistance around Kennebunkport, Maine, now need to request it, instead of hearing it automatically.

Mariners and residents say boaters are at risk because of the U.S. Coast Guard decision to change the operating system of the Goat Island Light.

Mariners needing foghorn assistance must now request it electronically by radio when coming in to port. The foghorn previously sounded automatically on foggy days. The switch took place Tuesday.

Residents, local officials and fishermen say the new system is a dangerous way to operate. They say people without the electronic equipment to ask for foghorn assistance will be left vulnerable.

Coast Guard officer Rob Lehmann says mariners were notified months ago. The Coast Guard did not hear feedback from anyone.