 December 29, 2005
The town meeting will address participation in the courtesy dockside examination program, crab fisheries safety, and fishing vessel stability and overloading. The Coast Guard encourages all commercial fishermen, and anyone else interested in the meeting's topics, to attend. Coast Guard personnel will also conduct courtesy dockside exams and safety compliance checks from Feb. 6 through Feb. 12. Safety checks are intended to look at primary life saving equipment and address any stability issues or concerns. "Fishermen in Alaska face many dangers when out on the water including harsh weather conditions and our state's unique geography," said Rear Adm. James C. Olson, Commander Coast Guard District 17. "While we have no control over the weather, we do have control over our preparedness. The Coast Guard is committed to help ensure fishing vessel safety, which is why programs such as courtesy dockside examinations are so important." Commercial crab fishermen are expected to load their fishing vessels in a manner consistent with their vessel's stability plans. Fishing vessels without stability plans are expected to adhere to the vessel builder's recommendations for pot loading procedures. Fishing vessels not adhering to adequate stability guidelines and found to be overloaded will be held at the dock. Mariners can sign up for a courtesy dockside safety exam at the harbor office and Petersburg Shipwrights. Publish A Letter on SitNews Read Letters/Opinions Submit A Letter to the Editor
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