Cordova fishing vessel exams set for April

Photo by Cinthia Gibbins-Stimson/The Cordova Times.

Dockside examinations of commercial fishing vessels in Cordova are set for April 10-25 by the U.S. Coast Guard’s Marine Safety Unit.

The focus of these free safety inspections is on the safety of all crewmembers and to ensure preparedness in emergency situations, said Petty Officer Adam Rodd, one of the examiners.

Examinations in Cordova are conducted on a limited basis, so vessel owners should be prepared for their scheduled exam by reviewing applicable requirements and purchasing the necessary equipment for their vessel in advance.

Fishermen are encouraged to log on to http://www.fishsafewest.info/ and click the link to the “checklist generator.”

This application accepts input on the fishing vessel, such as length, persons aboard, where it operates and generates a list of requirements applicable to that specific fishing vessel.  This allows vessel owners to know exactly what Coast Guard dockside examiners will be looking for during the exam.

The Coast Guard reminds those fishing that all fire extinguishers on board require maintenance and inspections. Non-rechargeable extinguishers require annual maintenance performed by the vessel owner and are required to be replaced after 12 years.
Rechargeable extinguishers require annual maintenance by a certified, licensed individual.  All extinguishers require a tamper proof seal installed and a servicing tag or inspection checklist to record the last 12 monthly inspections. Fire extinguishers not meeting servicing requirements will prevent issuance of a decal.

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Those wishing to complete their annual exam in Cordova should contact the Coast Guard Marine Safety Unit office in Valdez before April 17 at 1-907-255-8724.

Information required to schedule an exam includes preferred date and time, slip number, type of vessel, size, name, color of vessel and owner contact information.

For additional information on this program in Valdez and Cordova contact Petty Officer Adam Rodd at 1-907-835-7226.

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