BOATERS should be aware that Safe Boating Week is just around the corner.
Yesterday, representatives from the U.S. Coast Guard Guam Auxiliary, U.S. Coast Guard Sector Guam, Guam Police Department’s Marine Patrol, Guam Fire Department’s Sea Rescue Unit and the general community were present for the proclamation signing of the weeklong event which starts next Monday.
U.S. Coast Guard Guam Auxiliary Flotilla Cmdr. Jack Ary said the signing kicks off the national campaign and is done every year to promote safe boating, wearing life jackets, and education programs through Coast Guard auxiliary services.
Various organizations and individuals were recognized for their efforts on boating safety such as National Weather Service, GPD and GFD, as well as Fisherman’s Co-op.
“With the National Weather Service, they put out loads of material. The information they put out every day is valuable while going out boating, whether it’s recreational, a fishing boat, or even water skiing,” he said. “Fisherman’s Co-op has been very supportive of our efforts and the police department for several years.”
A few activities scheduled for Safe Boating Week:
- May 19, at the Micronesia Mall, there will be huge displays about boating safety.
- May 20, there will be free vessel checks at the Agat Marina from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m.
- May 23, vessel checks at Merizo Pier from 9 a.m. to noon.
- May 26, vessel checks at the Hagåtña Boat Basin.
Ary said Coast Guard auxiliarists will also conduct safety checks.
“If boats pass the inspection, they’re given a decal,” he said.
The auxiliarists will look for equipment needed for a vessel such as boat plan, life jackets, radio, etc. The decal is also what law enforcement officials will look out for if they come across a vessel just off of Guam’s shores.
