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SUMMER 2002 ISSUE
BOATING SAFETY:
BOATING SAFETY ISSUES POST 9/11
The Coast Guard has issued several new warnings and advisories, and an anti-terrorist safety message to boaters following the events of September 11, 2001. Captain Scott Evans, Chief of the U.S. Coast Guard's Office of Boating Safety in Washington, D.C. states, "In spite of the diabolical acts of the September 11th terrorist, it is important that recreational boaters know their waterways are safe and that they can play a big role in keeping it that way. But times such as these require some tighter security measures for the upcoming boating season."
Evans emphasized, “Just being out on the waterways you too become protectors and defenders. You see, you hear and you can report suspicious activities. That makes it extremely difficult for terrorists with their malicious agenda to be successful. When you are on the water, report anything that looks peculiar or out of the ordinary to local authorities or the Coast Guard, … but…please… in no way approach or challenge suspicious activities or individuals.”
Items that are in bold print are especially important.
SAFETY PRECAUTIONS FOR BOATERS
1. First and foremost, make sure your boat is safe and that it meets all safety requirements and regulations. Making sure that your boat has a current Vessel Safety Check is an important first step. Your safety, and that of all of your passengers, is very important to the Coast Guard. You can arrange for a Vessel Safety Check of your boat by contacting your local Coast Guard Auxiliary or Power Squadron.
2. Always secure and lock your boat when not on board. This included while visiting marina restaurants or a friend's dock and other piers. Never leave your boat accessible to others.
3. Always take the keys to the boat with you.
4. When storing your boat, make sure it is secure and its engine is disabled. If it is on a trailer, make the trailer as immovable as possible.
5. Do not stop or anchor beneath bridges or in the channel. If you do, then expect to be boarded by law enforcement officials.
6. Observe and avoid all security zones.
7. Avoid commercial port operation areas, especially those that involve military, cruiseline or petroleum facilities.
8. DO NOT APPROACH WITHIN 100 YARDS OF ANY U.S. NAVAL VESSEL - If you need to pass within 100 yards of a U.S. naval vessel in order to ensure a safe passage in accordance with the Navigation Rules, you must contact the U.S. naval vessel or the Coast Guard escort vessel on VHF-FM channel 16.
9. You must operate at minimum speed within 500 yards of any U.S. naval vessel, and proceed as directed by the Commanding Officer or the official patrol.
10. Report all activities that seem suspicious to the local authorities, the Coast Guard and the port and/or marina security. -- Do not approach or challenge those acting in a suspicious manner.
“At times such as these, boating safety can make an even bigger difference. It reduces demands on the Coast Guard and enables us to get the absolute most from our resources and assets to respond to all of the public’s marine safety, security, national defense and environmental needs.”
June 1, 2002 - MarinaMate.com
Information provided by the U.S. Coast Guard Office of Boating Safety website.
Click here for more information on the 100-Yard Approach Warning for Naval Vessels. (Adobe Acrobat PDF format)
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