In the space of three days, the WA Coast Guard recently terminated the voyages of two fishing vessels: The FV DAYBREAK in the Strait of Juan de Fuca and a state-registered fishing vessel near Anacortes.
The F/V DAYBREAK lacked a life raft, visual distress signals, and enough survival suits. The Coast Guard escorted the vessel to Neah Bay. The vessel near Anacortes lacked a sound producing device, enough life jackets, and a current fishing vessel inspection. The boat was escorted to Anacortes.
“It’s imperative for mariners to have crucial safety equipment on board,” said Dan Hardin, 13th Coast Guard District/Pacific Northwest commercial fishing vessel safety coordinator. “The chances of survival are immediately lessened when this vital gear is either not on board or inoperable.”
Both vessels will remain in port until commercial fishing vessel examiners from Coast Guard Sector Puget Sound, Seattle, verify safety deficiencies have been corrected.
Don’t jeopardize you and your crew’s safety: buy and maintain quality safety equipment for your vessel. Wasting time sitting at the dock won’t be any fun, either.