Getting a call from the US Coast Guard is one of the scariest situations for those of us shore side. It may be a false alarm or it may mean our fishing boat is experiencing an emergency. The most recent call turned out to be a false alarm. But, how does Grouper & Greens keep our fishermen safe at sea?
The US Coast Guard requires all boats commercially fishing in federal waters to pass a safety check. There is a long check list, but part of that list is: possession of a life raft suitable for the number of crew on board, survival suits (for colder temperatures), flares, and a Emergency Position Indicating Radio Beacon (EPIRB). These items must be up-to-date.
Why are these safety measures necessary? While commercial fishing can be an amazing and rewarding experience, it is also hard and dangerous work. In fact, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, "Commercial fishing is one of the most hazardous occupations in the United States with a fatality rate 29 times higher than the national average."
So, it is very important for us to exceed current safety standards. One way we are exceeding those safety standard is with our Vessel Monitoring System. When the US Coast Guard calls, we can see the exact position of the boat, communicate, and make sure our fishermen are safe!
Interested in learning more about fishing safety on the East Coast? Click here. -
