D11SR Auxiliary Press Releases

Valentine's Day Gift Ideas from the U.S. Coast Guard Auxiliary

2009-01-31T22:52:00.001-08:00

U.S. Coast Guard Auxiliary
Public Affairs

PRESS RELEASE

Date: February 1, 2009

Contact: Anthony Turner
Public Affairs Officer
562-577-0343
anthony.j.turner@uscg.mil
http://www.news.auxpa.org/

Valentine's Day Gift Ideas from the U.S. Coast Guard Auxiliary

With "love in the air" and spring and the boating season just around the corner, the U.S. Coast Guard Auxiliary offers some Valentine's Day gift ideas for boaters to help them stay safe all year long.

One of the best gift ideas for boaters is to sign them up for a boating education course. Knowledge is power, and it has been statistically shown that boaters who have taken a safety class are far less likely to be involved in a boating mishap or fatality.

The start of the traditional boating season is just a couple of months away, so now is a good time to schedule a free Vessel Safety Check (VSC). A VSC is a valuable gift for boaters that doesn't cost anything but time.

The “switch to digital” even affects boaters. Starting February 1, 2009 the Coast Guard no longer monitors analog distress signals transmitted from the older Emergency Position Indicating Radio Beacons (EPIRBs). A new digital EPIRB is another great Valentine’s Day gift idea.

Other great gift ideas to help keep boaters safe include:

Sleek, light-weight, and comfortable inflatable life jackets (personal flotation devices - PFDs)
A carbon monoxide detector
Emergency signaling kits -- flares, signal mirror, whistle, etc.
Kill switch leash -- kills the engine if the boater falls overboard
Up-to-date navigational charts and/or a handheld GPS unit
Navigation tools and calculators
Hand-held VHF marine radio with extra batteries

The Coast Guard and Coast Guard Auxiliary recommend these gifts to save lives and reduce mishaps on America's waterways.

The U.S. Coast Guard Auxiliary is the uniformed volunteer component of the United States Coast Guard created by an Act of Congress in 1939. The Auxiliary, America’s Volunteer Guardians, supports the Coast Guard in nearly all of the service's missions.

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To sign-up for a Boating Education Course visit:

http://nws.cgaux.org/visitors/pe_visitor/index.html

To schedule a free Vessel Safety Course visit:

www.safetyseal.net

For more information about the switch to digital EPIRBs visit:

www.cospas-sarsat.org/firstpage/121.5phaseout.htm

For more information on how to become one of America's Volunteer Guardians visit:

www.join.cgaux.org

U.S. Coast Guard Auxiliary Welcomes Americans Looking to Answer President’s Call to Service

2009-01-28T23:52:00.001-08:00

U.S. Coast Guard Auxiliary
Public Affairs

PRESS RELEASE

Date: January 29, 2008

Contact: Anthony Turner
Public Affairs Officer
562-577-0343
anthony.j.turner@uscg.mil
http://www.news.auxpa.org/

U.S. Coast Guard Auxiliary Welcomes Americans Looking to Answer President’s Call to Service

WASHINGTON, President Obama has called the nation to service. Members of the U.S. Coast Guard Auxiliary have been answering that call for nearly 70 years.

Auxiliarists have answered America’s call following the attacks of September 11, 2001, the aftermaths of Hurricanes Katrina, Rita, Gustav and Ike. Most recently the Auxiliary, America's Volunteer Guardians, were on the waterways in the Capital region in support of the Presidential Inauguration.

Although none of the “Miracle on the Hudson,” rescuers included Auxiliarists, some of the rescuers did included the Officers of the Port Authority of New York and New Jersey Police Department’s (PAPD) LaGuardia Airport Marine Unit. Those police officers were trained by the men and women of the Coast Guard Auxiliary, through the Small Boat Course for Local Law Enforcement (SBCLLE), a program run through the Office of the Director of Auxiliary, First Coast Guard District Southern Region.

According to Auxiliarist Wayne Spivak, SBCLLE Program Manager and Chief Instructor “the Auxiliarists who have been a part of this program are proud that they were part of the rescue effort of Flight 1549 ).” To date the Coast Guard Auxiliary has trained over 100 PAPD Police Officers, working with them in an intensive two-week classroom and on-the-water program.

The U.S. Coast Guard Auxiliary is the uniformed volunteer component of the United States Coast Guard created by an Act of Congress in 1939. The Auxiliary supports the Coast Guard in nearly all of the service's missions.

The Coast Guard Auxiliary is a perfect fit for those American’s looking to answer the President’s call to service. Membership is open to U.S. citizens, at least 17 years old, and able to pass a basic background check. There is no upper age limits or height/weight restrictions, although for operational activities, members must be physically able to perform certain tasks.

For more information on how to become one of America's Volunteer Guardians visit http://join.cgaux.org/

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Luck of the Draw – Coast Guard Cutter Eagle

2008-08-14T11:17:00.001-07:00

U.S. Coast Guard Auxiliary
Public Affairs

PRESS RELEASE

Date: 14 August 2008

Contact: Anthony Turner
Public Affairs Officer
310-908-6950
anthony.j.turner@uscg.mil
http://www.new.auxpa.org/

Luck of the Draw - Coast Guard Cutter Eagle

She was commissioned Horst Wessel and served as a training ship for German naval cadets throughout World War II (a translated-diary from a German naval cadet who trained aboard the Horst Wessel in 1937 is available at http://www.uscg.mil/History/WEBCUTTERS/horstwessel1937logbooktranslation.pdf .) Following World War II, the Horst Wessel, in the age-old custom of capture and seizure, was taken as a war prize by the United States. A lottery of sorts was held between the former Soviet Union who drew number 1, followed by Great Britain, number 2, and then the United States, number 3. Before the results of the draw were officially announced, the U.S representative, through quiet diplomacy, convinced the Soviets to trade draws and on May 15, 1946, the Horst Wessel was commissioned into U.S. Coast Guard service as the Eagle. On her maiden voyage to the United States from Germany the Eagle followed Columbus's route across the mid-Atlantic.

Since being commissioned in 1946 the Eagle has played a role in several historic and noteworthy moments in our country’s history including hosting OpSail in New York as part of the World's Fair in 1964 and again she hosted OpSail in 1976 during the United States' Bicentennial celebration. In 1986 she hosted the centennial celebration for the Statue of Liberty. Just this past week the Eagle served as a backdrop for the commissioning ceremony of the Coast Guard’s first National Security Cutter, Bertholf, in Alameda, California.

In addition to its ceremonial duties the Eagle primarily serves as a seagoing classroom for approximately 175 cadets and instructors from the Coast Guard Academy.

Starting on Friday August 15, 2008 the public will have an opportunity to not only see the Eagle lead the Festival of Sail parade into Los Angeles Harbor, but also get up close and personal by taking advantage of rare public tours until Sunday afternoon. “This is a very special opportunity for southern Californians to visit such a historic ship, the last time the Eagle was in port here was about four years ago. “ said Coast Guard Captain James Sommer, Commanding Officer of the Coast Guard base in San Pedro, California.

Free public tours of the football field long sail ship are scheduled to be held Friday from 2 p.m. to 5 p.m.; Saturday from 10:00 a.m. to 5 p.m.; Sunday from 10:00 a.m. to 5 p.m. The ship will be moored at the Port of Los Angeles, Berth 87 for the tours.

There are limited seats for members of the media interested in sailing on the vessel as it sails into the harbor. For those interested, please contact Petty Officer Allyson Conroy at 310.521.4260 or allyson.e.conroy@uscg.mil no later than noon on Thursday.

To view historic photos of the Eagle visit http://www.uscg.mil/History/WEBCUTTERS/Eagle_1946.html

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Future Rescuer

2008-08-10T01:13:00.001-07:00

U.S. Coast Guard Auxiliary
Public Affairs

PHOTO RELEASE

Date: 10 August 2008

Contact: Anthony Turner
Chief, External Communications Division
310-908-6950
anthony.j.turner@uscg.mil
http://www.new.auxpa.org/

SAN PEDRO, Calif. - Coast Guard Auxiliary members David Barber, (left) and Trent Kelly take note as Cub Scout Andrew Freitas tries his hand at the “monkey ball” toss. Earlier in the day Coast Guard Auxiliary members competed in search and rescue competition while the Scouts looked on. Scouts from a local troop spent the day at the Coast Guard base. The day’s activities included a ride aboard a 41 foot rescue boat (pictured bottom) (U.S. Coast Guard Photos by Anthony Turner, USCGAUX)

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COAST GUARD CUTTER EAGLE COMES TO SAN FRANCISCO

2008-07-25T15:36:00.001-07:00

U.S. Coast Guard Auxiliary
Public Affairs

PHOTO RELEASE

Date: 25 July 2008

Contact: Anthony Turner
Chief, External Communications Division
310-908-6950
anthony.j.turner@uscg.mil
http://www.new.auxpa.org/

San Francisco CA (July 23, 2008) - U.S. Coast Guard Auxiliary Vessel Silver Charm, escorts Coast Guard Cutter Eagle, a three-masted sailing barque with 21,350 square feet of sail during Festival of Sail Parade in San Francisco Bay. The New London, Conn., based cutter's hull is built of steel four-tenths of an inch thick and has two full length steel decks with a platform deck below.

This is the Eagle's first trip to the West Coast in four years. The ship was a war prize from Nazi Germany, and is the only square-rigged sailing ship in the United States government service. It was originally commissioned the Horst Wessel in 1936 by Nazi Germany where it was one of three training ships used to train navy cadets. Taken as a war prize by the United States in 1946 and renamed, the Eagle now allows the Coast Guard's future officers to apply the navigation, engineering, and leadership training they receive in classes at the Coast Guard Academy to real-life challenges on the sea. (USCG Photo by Eric J. Hebert, USCGAUX.)

KAYAKING/CANOEING REPRESENT MORE THAN 15% OF ALL RECREATIONAL BOATING FATALITIES IN THE UNITED STATES.

2008-07-16T00:59:00.001-07:00

U.S. Coast Guard Auxiliary
Public Affairs

PRESS RELEASE

Date: 16 July 2008

Contact: Anthony Turner
Chief, External Communications Division
310-908-6950
anthony.j.turner@uscg.mil
http://www.new.auxpa.org/

KAYAKING/CANOEING REPRESENT MORE THAN 15% OF ALL RECREATIONAL BOATING FATALITIES IN THE UNITED STATES.

LOS ANGELES, Calif – In a year where overall recreational boating fatalities decreased from 710 in 2006 to 685 in 2007 the number of fatalities associated with the use of canoes/kayaks increased to 107 in 2007 as compared with 99 in 2006. This is according to statistics from the U.S. Coast Guard’s Office of Auxiliary and Boating Safety. This figure represents about 15.6 percent of the total of all recreational fatalities in the U.S. in 2007. Of the 107 fatalities associated with kayaking/canoeing 97 were from drowning (66 canoe/ 31 kayak.) The complete 2007 Recreational Boating Statistics are available at http://www.uscgboating.org/statistics/accident_stats.htm.

A recent study by the Outdoor Industry Foundation has shown a dramatic increase in the number of Americans participating in kayaking, a 23% increase in 2005 alone. As the number of people turning to kayaking/canoeing (especially with rising fuel cost), so does the risk for kayak and canoe operators getting themselves into trouble.

The U.S. Coast Guard Auxiliary and the American Canoe Association (http://www.americancanoe.org ) offers some basic safety tips:

· Always wear a U.S. Coast Guard approved life jacket.

· Be comfortable in the water, out of your boat.

· Obtain the knowledge, skills and ability necessary for kayaking and canoeing.

· Always boat with a group. Three boats is a recommended minimum.

· Know how to self-rescue. Practice! Practice! Practice!

· File a float plan, with friends,,family, or the authorities.

· Bring appropriate safety, rescue, and navigational aids, and more than adequate food, water, and extra protective clothing. Do not wear cotton!

· Pick an activity level that matches your ability, and progress to more demanding challenges.

· Monitor your physical and emotional condition, and watch the other members or your group for fatigue, illness, and changes in behavior.

· Know and follow all local, state and federal laws.

· Be visible - wear bright colors so others can see you between waves or in the fog. Carry a bright light, flares, and whistle to signal your position.

· Take a boating safety class offered by the U.S. Coast Guard Auxiliary.

The U.S. Coast Guard Auxiliary is the uniformed civilian component of the United States Coast Guard. Created by an Act of Congress in 1939, the Auxiliary directly supports the Coast Guard in all missions, except military and direct law enforcement actions. The Coast Guard Auxiliary is an integral part of the United States Coast Guard. For more information visit www.cgaux.org if you are ready to be join visit http://join.cgaux.org/ .

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A Farewell to Ken Coddington after 21 Years of Service To Coast Guard Station Channel Harbor

2008-07-01T16:47:00.001-07:00

U.S. Coast Guard Auxiliary
Public Affairs

PRESS RELEASE

Date: 30 June 2008

Contact: Henry Goldman
Public Affairs Officer

(805) 985-7740

cgauxpa@yahoo.com

A Farewell to Ken Coddington after 21 Years of Service To
Coast Guard Station Channel Harbor

CHANNEL ISLANDS HARBOR, Calif - June 26, 2008, Mr. Coddington was honored for his outstanding service in the USCG Auxiliary and to the USCG Station Channel Islands Harbor. He started his career serving his country in WWII, enlisting in 1942. He left active duty as a Naval Flight Commander in 1977. In 1987 Ken joined the USCG Auxiliary and soon after qualified to be a part time volunteer OOD, the person responsible for the operation of the station while on duty. To date Ken has spent over 3600 hours in performing his duty at the station, and has mentored hundreds of Coast Guard and Auxiliary personnel qualifying for their movement through the ranks of responsibility.

Coast Guard Commanding Officer Lt. Marcus Gherardi presented to Auxiliarist Ken Coddington, Flotilla 7-4 a Medal Of Operational Support for his devotion to duty as Officer of The Deck for the past 10 years.

Commander of the Station Lt.Marcus Gherardi stated “ There will be a void here at the station, with Cmdr. Coddington’s presence almost every Saturday standing duty as the responsible officer for the day. We are here today with over 40 of Coast Guard family. He will be missed but never forgotten and we all wish him well in his move to the East Coast to enjoy his retiring years with his extended family.” Mr. Coddington responded, “I will be leaving a great part of my career here at the station, but I will not be giving up my devotion to duty. I will join the local Coast Guard Auxiliary in the area that I am moving to in order to continue my service to the Coast Guard.”

We thank men like Ken Coddington for his devotion and commitment to serving the U.S.COAST GUARD, U.S.COAST GUARD AUXILIARY and HOMELAND SECURITY.

(Pictured - Coast Guard Commanding Officer Lt. Marcus Gherardi (right) presents to Auxiliarist Ken Coddington, Flotilla 7-4 (center) a Medal Of Operational Support for his devotion to duty as Officer of The Deck for the past 10 years, Photo by Mick Brodey, USCGAUX)

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How much is your life worth? Is it worth a $15.00 life jacket?

2008-06-30T00:01:00.001-07:00

U.S. Coast Guard Auxiliary
Public Affairs

PRESS RELEASE

Date: 30 June 2008

Contact: Anthony Turner
Chief, External Communications Division
310-908-6950
anthony.turner@auxpa.org
http://www.new.auxpa.org/

U.S. Coast Guard approved life jackets range in price from as low as $15.00 to about $400.00 for the top of the line inflatable, although, even the most expensive life jacket is worthless if it is not worn.

With the long Fourth of July holiday just a few days away the U.S. Coast Guard Auxiliary points out that life jacket wear is "critical" to surviving a boating accident. Ninety percent of boaters who drown were not wearing their life jackets, and according to Coast Guard statistics life jackets could prevent approximately two-thirds of all boating-related drownings of children ages 14 and under. Holiday weekends are especially dangerous times for boating. In California for example, nearly 20% of all boating accidents occur during the three summer holiday weekends of Memorial Day, July 4th and Labor Day, according to the California Department of Boating and Waterways (DBW). Not wearing life jackets increases that danger.

Most boating accidents are caused by operator inattention, inexperience, and speeding resulting in collisions. Remembering and following a few simple boating rules of the road, such as keeping a sharp lookout for other boat traffic, can help prevent collisions on congested waterways.

In congested areas, intoxicated operators and passengers increase the already high risk of accident. Alcohol and boating are a deadly mix, especially when combined with stressors in the marine environment, such as sun, glare, wind, heat, and boat and engine noise. Last year, 21% of boating fatalities were alcohol related, and half of those who died were passengers whose intoxication contributed to their deaths, according to the DBW.

Those who recreate on rivers and lakes, especially kayakers and other paddle craft operators, should be aware that in some areas the water is still cold from late snow melt. The current may be swift, strong and not always visible. River conditions can change quickly due to weather and water releases, resulting in increased hazard.

Parents should keep a watchful eye on children playing in or around the water, and are advised to put properly fitting Coast Guard approved life jackets on little ones when they're wading as an added safety measure. Adults should also take precautions for their own safety. A commonly seen accident scenario, parents insure the children are wearing life jackets, but neglect to wear life jackets themselves, instead relying on their swimming ability to keep them safe.

Swimming out too far, or attempting to retrieve gear in the water, and being swept away by currents, are all scenarios when the persons would have survived if they had been wearing their life jackets.

The July 4th weekend could be safer this year if boaters remember to maintain a proper lookout, wear their life jackets, and don't boat under the influence of alcohol.

The United States Coast Guard Auxiliary is the uniformed civilian component of the United States Coast Guard. These men and women can be found on the nation's waterways, in the air, in classrooms and on the dock, performing Maritime Domain Awareness patrols, safety patrols, vessel safety checks and public education. For more information on the United States Coast Guard Auxiliary, visit us at http://www.cgaux.org.

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TSUNAMI AFTERMATH IN SOUTHERN CALIFORNIA

2008-06-23T20:23:00.001-07:00

U.S. Coast Guard Auxiliary
Public Affairs

PRESS RELEASE

Date: 22 June 2008

Contact: Anthony Turner
Public Affairs Officer
310-908-6950
anthony.turner@auxpa.org
http://www.new.auxpa.org/

TSUNAMI AFTERMATH IN SOUTHERN CALIFORNIA

LOS ANGELES, Calif. On June 22, 2008 from San Diego to as far north as Santa Barbara, members of the U.S. Coast Guard Auxiliary went into alert status as part of a communications exercise following a simulated tsunami that hit along the west coast of California. The purpose of the exercise was to test the communications capabilities of the Coast Guard Auxiliary in the event of a real emergency such as an earthquake or tsunami.

During Hurricane Katrina, Coast Guard Auxiliary communications facilities played a critical role in effecting rescues throughout the region and in some cases Auxiliary communications were the only communications available. “One of the reasons we have these exercises is to test the coverage area of our VHF repeater network and to test our ability to accurately and quickly get information from an Auxiliarist on a dock with a hand-held radio to an Incident Commander hundreds of miles away", said John Olson, the Chief Communications Officer for the Coast Guard Auxiliary District 11-South which covers all of southern California, parts of Arizona and parts of Nevada. “While today’s exercise was not perfect, we were able to adapt and overcome some problems we encountered, which is part of the learning process.” (Pictured: Coast Guard Auxiliary members check dock following simulated tsunami in southern California - U.S. Coast Guard Auxiliary photo by Anthony Turner, USCGAUX)

The Threat in California

More than a dozen tsunamis with waves three feet high or more have struck California since 1812. Six caused damage. The tsunami generated by the 1964 Alaska earthquake killed a dozen Crescent City residents and caused more than $34 million in damage ($222,783,000.00 in 2007) Three tsunamis flooded Santa Barbara in the 1800’s and a tsunami resulting from a Chilean earthquake damaged a pier in San Diego Harbor in 1960.

Before the Next Tsunami or Tsunami Watch

1. Determine the elevation of your home and how far it is from the coast. Know whether you live in a tsunami danger zone.

2. If you live within a couple of miles of the coast, identify a location to go if a tsunami watch or warning is issued or if you feel an earthquake lasting for 15-20 seconds. The location should be at least two miles inland or 100 feet above sea level.

3. Learn the signs of an approaching tsunami. If the tide rises or recedes rapidly, move immediately inland to higher ground.

4. Ask local emergency officials or your planning department what areas are susceptible to the flooding from a tsunami.

5. Locate refuge areas and learn evacuation routes that are safe.

6. Develop or update your family’s emergency plan.

7. Assemble an emergency supply kit, if you haven’t done so. Include a portable radio. (Consider the purchase of a NOAA weather radio.)

8. Identify a friend or relative living in another state as your family point of contact.

9. Learn first aid.

10. Teach family members how and when to turn off the utilities.

(For more information on tsunamis and emergency preparedness visit www.espfocus.org )

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SIXTY-NINE YEARS OF DEDICATED SERVICE

2008-06-22T15:08:00.001-07:00

U.S. Coast Guard Auxiliary
Public Affairs

PRESS RELEASE

Date: 22 June 2008

Contact: Anthony Turner
Chief, External Communications Division
310-908-6950
anthony.turner@auxpa.org
http://www.new.auxpa.org/

SIXTY-NINE YEARS OF DEDICATED SERVICE

June 23, 2008 marks the U.S. Coast Guard Auxiliary’s sixty-ninth year of dedicated service to the nation. Over the past year the Auxiliary has provided over three million hours of direct support to the Coast Guard. Admiral Thad Allen, Commandant of the Coast Guard stated in his 69^th Anniversary message to the entire Coast Guard family that “the overall contribution that Auxiliarist have given year after year is impressive, but the greatest measure of their impact is found in their spirit of patriotism and their steadfast commitment to the guardian ethos and the men and women of the Coast Guard with whom they serve. The Coast Guard Auxiliary is an extremely valuable asset to [the Coast Guard], the Department of Homeland Security, and our nation.”

Over the past few years the Auxiliary has significantly increased its capacity to support Active Duty Coast Guard units in several mission areas such as Maritime Domain Awareness (MDA) and the America’s Waterway Watch program. Auxiliary members are teaching tens of thousands of America’s recreational boaters, and public and private stakeholders, who live, work, and play on and around America’s waterfront, how to properly identify and report suspicious maritime activity for the benefit of our nation’s safety and security. Auxiliary members have being incorporated into the Coast Guard’s port, waterways and coastal security missions as well as providing administrative and logistical support at venues ranging from medical clinics to Coast Guard training center classrooms to foreign language interpreter services aboard deployed cutters.

Of course the Auxiliary continues to conduct its traditional recreational safety boating missions. Over the past year Auxiliarist provided the boating public over fifty thousand hours of boating safety education courses and conducted over one hundred thirty thousand vessel safety checks. These education courses and vessel safety checks directly contribute to the prevention of countless search and rescue cases and lives saved each year.

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It's No Joke - False Distress Calls Cost All Of Us

2008-06-18T11:51:00.001-07:00

U.S. Coast Guard Public Affairs
Detachment - Los Angeles

Contact: PADET L.A.
(310) 521-4260

U.S. Coast Guard Auxiliary
Public Affairs

Contact: Anthony Turner
Chief, External Communications Division
310-908-6950
anthony.turner@auxpa.org
http://www.new.auxpa.org/

PRESS RELEASE

It's No Joke

False Distress Calls Cost All Of Us

For more than 200 years the U.S. Coast Guard has responded to distress calls at sea as quickly as possible as if it were an actual call for help. But every once in a while, some of those calls are found to be false alarms, or hoax calls, sent by people who willingly mislead the Coast Guard and other search and rescue assets for various reasons. What they don't realize though is that a hoax call could potentially divert valuable search assets from an actual distress case, and put rescuers unnecessarily in harms way while responding to the false call.

The federal law concerning false distress calls

14 U.S.C. 88(c) makes it a federal felony for anyone to knowingly and willfully communicate a false distress message to the Coast Guard or cause the Coast Guard to attempt to save lives and property when no help is needed. Penalties include up to 6 years in prison, $250,000 fine, $5,000 civil penalty, and the possible reimbursement to the Coast Guard for the cost of performing the search.

Hoax calls affect everyone, including people who are not boat owners or part of the maritime community. Hoax calls affect:

-The U.S. Coast Guard by placing our men and women in danger by operating ships, boats and aircraft, responding to these false distress calls;

-The American taxpayers by wasting hundreds of thousands of dollars annually. This is money that can be allotted homeland security and/or additional training;

-Those really in distress at sea by interfering with legitimate search-and-rescue cases.

Anyone who knowingly and willfully commits a hoax or false distress call is fleecing America. The Coast Guard is working with the Federal Communications Commission, Department of Justice and other federal, state and local agencies to aggressively prosecute hoax callers and recover costs for the federal government on behalf of all taxpayers.

Coast Guard Assets and Average Hourly Costs

The U.S. Coast Guard, as a matter of both law and policy, does not seek to recover the costs associated with search-and-rescue from the recipients of those services. While we must be mindful to employ a cost-effective response to an incident, response or distress itself must not be delayed or limited by the misplaced concern of "who is to pay the bill."

One of the exceptions to this rule is the perpetrators of false distress calls. One penalty levied on hoax callers is reimbursement to the Coast Guard for the costs of performing the search. This is determined by hourly standard rates for cutters, boats, aircraft and crew.

HOAX CASES THROUGHOUT THE UNITED STATES:

JANUARY, 1999: A male voice, claiming to be the operator of a motor yacht alerted the Coast Guard in San Diego that his vessel was sinking southwest of Point Loma, Calif., and there were 11 people, nine of them children, on board. Coast Guard assets searched the area with vessels from the San Diego Harbor Patrol and four good Samaritan vessels. While the male continued to report the distress, Coast Guard Station San Diego and San Diego Harbor Patrol boats boarded a vessel at anchorage in San Diego Harbor. The distress transmission abruptly concluded when the units approached the Dessert Diver. It is strongly believed this distress call was a hoax originated from the vessel.

FEBRUARY 2005: Patricia Johnson, 49, of Selmer, Tenn., pleaded guilty October 27, 2004 in U.S. District Court in Grand Rapids, Mich., to charges of conspiracy to commit mail fraud and making a false distress call to the Coast Guard. She was sentenced to two years in a federal prison and was ordered to pay $56,958.30 in restitution to the Coast Guard.

JUNE 2004: U.S. Coast Guard Seaman Apprentice Robert T. Tolson, assigned to the San Diego-based Coast Guard Cutter Hamilton, pled guilty to three charges and specifications related to making a false distress calls at a court-martial proceeding. Tolson was sentenced to receive a reduction in pay grade to E-1, the lowest enlisted paygrade; confinement for five months in the U.S. Naval Brig at Miramar, Calif.; and a bad conduct discharge from the Coast Guard.

MAY 2004: Coast Guard Investigative Services (CGIS) in cooperation with the Federal Communications Commission and the Northern California U.S. Attorney's office ended a three-year-long hoax-calling spree by Kurtis D. Thorsted of Salinas, Calif. He was sentenced to two years imprisonment and was order to pay $29,000 in restitution to the Coast Guard.

MARCH 2004: Everett A. Sawyer, a Gloucester, Mass. fisherman, pled guilty and was found guilty for violating the New Hampshire criminal law, "False Public Alarm," for knowingly communicating a false distress message to the Coast Guard. The Portsmouth (N.H.) District Court fined Sawyer $1,700.

MARCH 2004: United States District Judge of Western Washington District of Washington sentenced James Garrett Baldwin, 31, of Aberdeen, Wash., to 12 months and one day imprisonment to be followed by three years of supervised release for one count of communicating a false distress message to the Coast Guard. Baldwin was also ordered to pay $194.587 in restitution to the Coast Guard.

See our Hoax Fact Sheet for more information

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View this document online
United States Coast Guard
11th Coast Guard District Public Affairs Detachment Los Angeles

U.S. Coast Guard Auxiliary Ham Radio Operators “Show Off”

2008-06-13T20:31:00.001-07:00

U.S. Coast Guard Auxiliary
Public Affairs

PRESS RELEASE

Date: 13 June 2008

Contact: Tom Nunes, Deputy Chief
National Department of Public Affairs
(602) 617-1979
tnunes@auxpa.org
http://www.new.auxpa.org/

U.S. Coast Guard Auxiliary Ham Radio Operators “Show Off”

Flagstaff, AZ – Arizona’s Coast Guard Auxiliary Amateur Radio operators will show off their emergency communications capabilities June 28-29 at the Pine View RV Park at Camp Navajo in Bellemont, Arizona twelve miles west of Flagstaff. The public can meet and talk with these radio operators and learn what amateur radio emergency communications and the Coast Guard Auxiliary is about.

Amateur or Ham radio operators provide critical communications in emergencies. During Hurricane Katrina, ham radio - was often the only way people could communicate. When trouble is brewing, ham radio people along with the Coast Guard and Coast Guard Auxiliary are often the first on scene and able to provide critical relief and communications.

This annual "Field Day" climaxes "Amateur Radio Week" sponsored by the American Radio Relay League (ARRL), the national association for amateur radio. With emergency power supplies, ham operators will build emergency stations in parks, shopping malls, schools and back yards around the country. Their slogan, "Ham radio works when other systems don't!” is reinforced since they send multi-format messages without use of telephones, internet or other “normal” methods. More than 30,000 amateur radio operators across the country are expected to participate in this year's event.

"We hope that people will come and see for themselves. This is not your grandfather's radio anymore”, said Stan Klock, the Coast Guard Auxiliary’s Communications Officer from Mesa, Arizona. "Communications networks that ham radio people can quickly create have saved many lives when other systems failed or were overloaded.”

There are 650,000 Amateur Radio licensees in the US, and more than 2.5 million around the world. Through the ARRL’s “ARES” program, ham volunteers provide emergency communications for thousands of state and local emergency response agencies, all free. To learn more about Amateur Radio, go to www.emergency-radio.org.

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22 New Coast Guard Auxiliary "Recruits" Sworn In!"

2008-06-12T11:47:00.001-07:00

U.S. Coast Guard Auxiliary
Public Affairs

PRESS RELEASE

Date: 11 June 2008

Contact: Kirk Scarborough
Public Affairs Officer
(714) 777-2300
Captkirk55@aol.com

YORBA LINDA, Calif. - The night of June 5^th, 2008 started the beginning for 22 new members of the U.S. Coast Guard Auxiliary. Commander Richard Symons, Director of Auxiliary for the 11^th Coast Guard District ( Southern Region) administer the Coast Guard Auxiliary Oath of Office. The new members and their families packed the conference room of the Yorba Linda Community Center, where the oath of office took place.

(pictured above: new members taking oath, U.S. Coast Guard Auxiliary photo by Kirk Scarborough, USCGAUX)

Commander Symons gave a brief presentation about the history of the U.S. Coast Guard and the formation of its Auxiliary. Commander Symons also talked about the specific missions performed by the Auxiliary over the past year. Nationally in 2007, the U.S. Coast Guard Auxiliary volunteered over 250,000 man-hours of service to the Coast Guard and our nation.

After being sworn in these twenty-two new members will become full fledge members of what is regarded as the “premiere” all-volunteer force in the Department of Homeland Security and the nation.

Some of these members will teach boating safety classes, conduct vessel safety checks. Some will become Maritime Domain Awareness Inspectors. While others will become “Boat Crew” qualified for search and rescue missions or for those who are bi-lingual they may become interpreters. The Coast Guard Auxiliary has something to interest most everyone.

GIVE GIFTS THAT MAY SAVE A LIFE: The U.S. Coast Guard Auxiliary offers Father's Day Gift Ideas for Boaters and Those Who Love Them

2008-06-11T19:29:00.001-07:00

U.S. Coast Guard Auxiliary
Public Affairs

PRESS RELEASE

Date: 11 June 2008

Contact: Anthony Turner
Chief, External Communications Division
310-908-6950
anthony.turner@auxpa.org
http://www.new.auxpa.org/

GIVE GIFTS THAT MAY SAVE A LIFE: The U.S. Coast Guard Auxiliary offers Father's Day Gift Ideas for Boaters and Those Who Love Them

LOS ANGELES, Calif - With Father's Day just a couple of days away the U.S. Coast Guard Auxiliary offers some gift ideas for boaters, including, kayakers and other paddle craft operators and personal watercraft operators to help them stay safe all year long.

One of the best gift ideas for boaters is to sign them up for a safe boating course. Knowledge is power, and it has been statistically shown that boaters who have taken a boating course are far less likely to be involved in a boating accident or fatality. Course topics include basic boat handling, required and recommended safety equipment, navigational rules and dealing with boating emergencies. You can also schedule a free vessel safety check (VSC) with your local Coast Guard Auxiliary unit. A trained and qualified auxiliary member of the Coast Guard will conduct a safety check on your vessel to ensure compliance with federal, state and local safety requirements before getting underway. For more information or to schedule a VSC, visit: http://www.vesselsafetycheck.org/.

Ten other great gift ideas to help keep boaters safe include:

Sleek, light-weight, and comfortable inflatable lifejackets
A carbon monoxide detector
Emergency signaling kits -- flares, signal mirror, whistle, etc.
Kill switch leash -- kills the engine if the boater falls overboard
Up-to-date navigational charts and/or a handheld GPS unit
Navigation tools and calculators
Hand-held VHF marine radio with extra batteries
Personal emergency position indicating radio beacons(PEPIRBs)
Tool kit and spare parts for boats
Personal protective Equipment (PPE), such as a First Aid kit, sun screen, sunglasses, food and water.

The price range for these items is from under ten dollars, up to several hundred dollars, but giving the gift of safety is priceless. These are recommended gift ideas that will help save lives and reduce accidents on America's waterways.

For more information on the United States Coast Guard Auxiliary, visit us at http://www.cgaux.org.

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COAST GUARD TO CELEBRATE FLAG DAY IN MARINA DEL REY

2008-06-10T15:25:00.001-07:00

U.S. Coast Guard
Sector Los Angeles-Long Beach

Press Release

Date: June 10,2008

Contact:
U.S. Coast Guard Public Affairs
Anthony Turner (310) 924-6028

COAST GUARD TO CELEBRATE FLAG DAY IN MARINA DEL REY

MARINA DEL REY, Calif. In celebration of Flag Day, June 14, 2008, the Coast Guard Cutter Halibut, an 87-foot cutter stationed at Marina Del Rey, will be open for tours along with a 47 foot “Motor Life Boat” from Station Channel Islands. There is also a planned search and rescue demonstration involving a Coast Guard HH-65C "Dolphin" Helicopter from Coast Guard Air Station - Los Angeles and rescue boats from the Los Angeles County Sheriff’s Department and Bay Watch Lifeguards. The search and rescue demonstration is planned to take place at about 12:00 p.m. in Marina del Rey’s main channel across from the Sheriff's Station.

Boating safety experts from the U.S. Coast Guard, U.S. Coast Guard Auxiliary, will also be on hand to inspect lifejackets and answer questions. The public is invited to bring their lifejackets for inspection. Children's lifejackets that are found to be in disrepair will be exchanged for a new Coast Guard approved lifejacket (while supplies last, one new children's lifejacket per family). California law requires children under 12 who are riding in a boat 26-feet or less to wear a Coast Guard-approved lifejacket.

Tours will be available starting at 10:30 a.m. at the Halibut mooring located at 13871 Fiji Way Marina Del Rey, CA 90292.

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COAST GUARD AUXILIARY WARNS - DON'T BE THE VICTIM OF THE "SILENT KILLER"

2008-06-05T16:54:00.000-07:00

U.S. Coast Guard Auxiliary
Public Affairs

PRESS RELEASE

Date: 5 June 2008

Contact: Anthony Turner
Chief, External Communications Division
310-908-6950
anthony.turner@auxpa.org
http://www.new.auxpa.org/

COAST GUARD AUXILIARY WARNS - DON'T BE THE VICTIM OF THE "SILENT KILLER"

LOS ANGELES, Calif. Carbon Monoxide (CO) can be a "silent killer" on houseboats and other recreational vessels. Each year, boaters are injured or killed by preventable carbon monoxide poisoning. Boaters have been poisoned by carbon monoxide in situations such as while setting fishing lines or performing maintenance on their boats while the engine was running. “Teak surfers” or “drag surfers” are particularly susceptible to carbon monoxide poisoning. This activity involves clinging to the swim platform or transom of an underway boat, then letting go and body surfing. Exposure to engine exhaust can cause a teak surfer to faint, and if not wearing a life jacket, which interferes with body surfing, to drown not to mention the potential danger of propeller injury. Teak surfing is illegal in some states.

Carbon monoxide is produce by gasoline, propane, charcoal or wood. On boats some common sources of carbon monoxide include engines, generators, cooking ranges, space heaters, and water heaters. Carbon monoxide can collect within a boat in a variety of ways. Exhaust leaks (the leading cause of death by carbon monoxide) can allow carbon monoxide to migrate throughout the boat and into enclosed areas. Even properly vented exhaust can re-enter a boat if it's moored too close to a dock or another boat, or if the exhaust is pushed back by prevailing winds. Exhaust can re-enter boats when cruising under certain conditions – the station wagon effect – especially with canvas in place. Exhaust can also collect in enclosed spaces near the stern swim platform.

There are many ways to protect your family from the dangers of carbon monoxide. Several of the different precautions a boater can take are listed below.

Use a Marine Carbon Monoxide Detector – These detectors work much like smoke alarms in houses. They sense a moderate level of carbon monoxide present on the vessel and emit a loud siren noise to alert the occupants of the danger.
Ensure Proper Ventilation – Open foredeck hatches and a window in the cabin to allow fresh air to travel through the vessel. Also, be aware that carbon monoxide can collect under a canopy.
Inspect Exhaust System Regularly - Look and listen for leaks in the exhaust system. Check each joint for discoloration, water leaks, carbon build-up or stains. Make sure all ventilation systems are in good repair and are not obstructed, restricted, or punctured. Seal gaps around engine room and exhaust system doors, hatches, and access panels.
Avoid the Transom – The transom is where carbon monoxide collects. Stay away from the transom while the vessel is idling or underway.
Educate Children – Instruct your children about the danger and presence of carbon monoxide on vessels.
Avoid Other Idling Vessels – Idling vessels are a very prominent source for high concentrations of carbon monoxide.

Symptoms of CO poisoning may include severe headache, dizziness, confusion, nausea, fainting, and death. Low levels can cause shortness of breath, mild nausea, and a mild headache. Low levels are more dangerous in the boating environment because they can lead to drowning. Carbon-monoxide poisoning may not be suspected immediately because the symptoms are similar to those of people with the flu, food poisoning, or other illnesses. If you suspect CO poisoning, immediately get the victim to fresh air and seek medical care.

Recognizing the dangers of CO poisoning some states, such as California now require a warning labels (below)

The U.S. Coast Guard Auxiliary says “a successful boating outing begins when you leave home and ends when you safely return home.” For more potentially life-saving information along with how to take a boating safety course or get a free vessel safety check from the Coast Guard Auxiliary visit http://www.uscgboating.org/.

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Coast Guard Auxiliary Adds 22 To Ranks

2008-06-04T20:44:00.001-07:00

U.S. Coast Guard Auxiliary
Public Affairs

Media Advisory

Date: 4 June 2008

Contact: Anthony Turner
Public Affairs Officer
310-908-6950
DVC-AX@auxpa.org
http://www.auxpa.org/

Coast Guard Auxiliary Adds 22 To Ranks

LOS ANGELES, Calif. -- The U.S. Coast Guard Auxiliary is always looking to increase its' ranks with new members and on June 5th, 2008, twenty-two new "recruits" will join the Coast Guard family in a mass swearing in ceremony in the City of Yorba Linda. Commander Richard Symons, Director of Auxiliary for the 11th Coast Guard District (Southern Region) will administer the Coast Guard Auxiliary oath.

After being sworn in these twenty-two new members will become members of what is regarded as the premier all-volunteer force in the U.S. Department of Homeland Security and the nation.

Some of these new members will teach boating safety classes, or conduct vessel safety checks. Some will become Maritime Domain Awareness Inspectors and conduct the vitally important outreach mission of educating and informing the boating and maritime community about programs such as America's Waterway Watch (www.americaswaterwaywatch.org) and still others may choose to become boat crew members. The Coast Guard Auxiliary has something to interest all most everyone. Membership is open to U.S. citizens who are 17 years or older who can pass a favorable background check.

The 7:00 p.m. swearing in ceremony will be held at the Yorba Linda Community Center, Casa Loma Ave., Yorba Linda, Ca. 92886. The public and media are invited to attend.

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How About “Lending a Hand” to Fight Terrorism?

2008-06-03T20:36:00.001-07:00

June 3, 2008

For more information contact:
Anthony Turner, Chief
External Communications Division
National Department of Public Affairs
(310) 908-6950
Email: anthony.turner@auxpa.org

PRESS RELEASE

LOS ANGELES, Calif. Most people can detect when something is "out of place" or when something "is just not right" especially when they are in their "own backyard." It is this natural level of awareness when in familiar surroundings that is the premise behind the America's Waterway Watch program. However for the program to really work the U.S. Coast Guard is asking that the public act on that natural level of awareness when they notice something "out of place" or when they notice something "is just not right" and call the National Response Center at 877- 24WATCH and report it. Of course in the case of immediate danger to life or property call 911 right away.

The America's Waterway Watch program is a nationwide initiative similar to the well known and successful Neighborhood Watch program that asks community members to report suspicious activities to local law enforcement agencies. "The America's Waterway Watch program just makes good sense" said Robert Nelson, a spokesperson for the U.S. Coast Guard Auxiliary, "people who spend much of their time on or near the water, already know what is normal and what is not – just like they do when it comes to their own backyard, and they are well suited to notice suspicious activities, including activities possibly indicating threats to our nation's homeland security." America's Waterway Watch is just one example of how the average person can "lend a hand" just by keeping their eyes and ears open to any suspicious activities – and reporting that suspicious activity to the National Response Center and local law enforcement.

"With the concern over the potential of terrorist using a small vessel as the delivery method to carry out an attack, the America's Waterway Watch program has become even more relevant" said Coast Guard Lt. John Taylor, who serves as America's Waterway Watch Assistant Program Manager. "Terrorists have demonstrated their ability to take command of a small vessel and use it to carry out their intent to do harm, for example, the USS Cole attack." Additionally, small vessels could be used by terrorists to smuggle weapons or other terrorists into the U.S. In an effort to address the small vessel threat, a series of Small Vessel Security Summits have been held by the Coast Guard throughout the country. The next Small Vessel Security Summit is being held on June 7, 2008 at Massachusetts's Maritime Academy. This meeting will engage small vessel stakeholders in the Northeast region of the country.

For more information about the America's Waterway Watch program visit www.americaswaterwaywatch.org. A video public service announcement is available for download at http://www.americaswaterwaywatch.org/Flash_ppt/AWW_2006_2.wmv.

As the uniformed, civilian component of the Coast Guard, the Coast Guard Auxiliary has the primary responsibility for America's Waterway Watch outreach to the recreational boating community. For more information about the U.S. Coast Guard Auxiliary visit www.cgaux.org.

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Coast Guard Auxiliary Hits Grand Slam for National Safe Boating Week

2008-05-30T20:31:00.001-07:00

PRESS RELEASE

May 26, 2008

For More Information Contact:
Anthony Turner, Chief
External Communications Division
National Department of Public Affairs
Email: anthony.turner@auxpa.org
(310) 908-6950

LOS ANGELES, Calif. For the past several months recreational boating safety organizations throughout the United States have been planning outreach events for this year's National Safe Boating Week (NSBW) which began on May 17 and ended this past weekend. National Safe Boating Week signals the traditional start of the recreational boating season.

In the Los Angeles area for example the U.S. Coast Guard Auxiliary promoted its "Get Yours" (free vessel safety check) campaign with the stated goal of performing courtesy Vessel Safety Checks on at least 30% of all recreational boats contacted on May 24, 2008 at designated locations. "At the end of the day our vessel examiners at the designated locations hit a grand slam with exams being conducted on about 90% of the boats. We were very pleased with our results" said Anthony Turner, a spokesperson for the Coast Guard Auxiliary.

During NSBW throughout the United States the Coast Guard Auxiliary and other boating safety organizations were busy conducting Vessel Safety Checks, boating safety demonstrations, children's life jacket trade-ins and other outreach activities all with the goal of making the 2008 recreational boating season safe. Of course these outreach efforts don't end with the end of NSBW. For the remainder of the boating season and during the off season boating safety organizations will continue to promote boating safety.

For more information about the Coast Guard Auxiliary, please visit www.cgaux.org or http://join.cgaux.org/.

Coast Guard Auxiliary vessel examiners at a southern California launch ramp conduct a vessel safety check on a boat prior to launch. (U.S. Coast Guard Auxiliary photo by, Rose Castroban, USCGAUX)</div

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FW: HOLIDAY WEEKEND BOATERS KEEP COAST GUARD AUXILIARY BUSY

2008-05-30T20:26:00.000-07:00

May 28, 2008

For more information contact:
Anthony Turner, Chief
External Communications Division
National Department of Public Affairs
(310) 908-6950
Email: anthony.turner@auxpa.org

PRESS RELEASE

HOLIDAY WEEKEND BOATERS KEEP COAST GUARD AUXILIARY BUSY

At Arizona's Roosevelt Lake the Coast Guard Auxiliary rescued two boats, six people and three dogs:

First the Coast Guard Auxiliary Rescue Boat Andiamo received a sketchy report of a disable boat from the local sheriff's department who also provided the disabled boat's cell phone number. Communications between the Auxiliary Rescue Boat and the disabled boat was via text messaging because of a weak cellular signal. Using text messaging Andiamo was able to determine the disabled boat, a 27 foot ski boat had two people on board and that it was stranded in about 7 feet of water near an area designated as a "hazardous stream."

While setting up to tow the 27 foot ski boat to safety Andiamo received a second call for help. Again, a cell phone was used to verify the vessel's position and condition. Four people and three dogs were on board a 25 foot disabled ski boat in an area known as Bermuda Flats in the middle of the lake. With the first disabled ski boat in tow Andiamo proceeded to the rescue of the second boat. After rigging a tow line from the first disabled boat to the second disabled boat Andiamo towed the "train" of boats about 12 miles to safety.

Coast Guard Auxiliary member Tom Nunes, the coxswain and owner of Andiamo noted that "while cell phones helped in these rescues and everyone was fine, the Coast Guard Auxiliary recommends that people who operate boats on our inland lakes and coastal areas have an operating VHF-FM radio on board in case they get in trouble." The Coast Guard, Coast Guard Auxiliary and all mariners with a VHF-FM radio are required to monitor Channel 16, the International calling and distress frequency.

On another lake in Arizona, the Coast Guard Auxiliary Rescue Boat Happy Wanderer received a call from Arizona Fish and Game about a disabled boat taking on water near a beach on Canyon Lake. The Happy Wanderer arrived to the rescue of the disabled boat only to find the owner bailing the boat out with an ice cooler - that was promptly replaced with an electric pump courtesy of the Coast Guard Auxiliary. After some discussion this boat was also towed to safety.

Disabled "train" of boats being towed by the Coast Guard Auxiliary Rescue Boat Andiamo on Arizona's Roosevelt Lake over the holiday weekend. (U.S. Coast Guard Auxiliary Photo)

About 1450 miles away the Coast Guard Auxiliary assisted and saved over 1.5 million dollars in recreational boats while patrolling at Wanapum Lake, Washington during the holiday weekend:

The Coast Guard Auxiliary located a boat dead in the water after striking a submerged object and taking on water at approximately 20 gallons per minute. The $500,000 jet boat was taken into side tow and three electric pumps were rigged to combat the rapid flooding.

Joe Malick, the vessel's owner, was transported by the Grant County Sheriff's Department to the boat launch to prepare his trailer to receive the damaged vessel. The vessel was then returned safely to the boat launch and removed from the water. "The vessel would have capsized in minutes," said Malick. Over the holiday weekend several other high value vessels were assisted by the Coast Guard Auxiliary.

Wanapum Lake is a popular vacation area for recreational boating and camping on holiday weekends. Boaters are reminded that Wanapum Lake is fed by the Columbia River. Its waters are about 50 degrees even on hot summer days, and life jackets greatly increase your odds of survival in the event of cold water immersion.

VANTAGE; Wash. - Coast Guard Auxiliarists tow the disabled jet boat Eliminator after discovering it adrift on Wanapum Lake, May 25, 2008. Moments later the vessel began taking on water at a rate of approximately 20-gallons a minute. The auxiliary pumped out the water using three electric pumps while taking the $500,000 dollar vessel to safety. (Coast Guard photo by Petty Officer Eric J. Chandler)

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HIGH WINDS AND TRAILERED BOATS DON’T MIX

2008-05-21T19:11:00.000-07:00

For more information contact:

Anthony Turner,

Public Afairs Officer

(310) 908-6950

MEDIA ADVISORY

The National Weather Service in Los Angeles has issued a high wind warning for Los Angeles and Ventura Counties continuing until Thursday. With the Memorial Day holiday weekend coming up many southern California boaters will be getting an early start to their holiday weekend destination. The U.S. Coast Guard Auxiliary reminds boaters that “a successful boating outing begins when you leave home and ends when you safely return home” and since the majority of recreational boats are transported to and from the water it is important that boaters take as much care transporting their boat, whether it be a power boat, sailboat, paddle craft or personal water craft as they do operating their boat on the water.

The National Weather Service is also forecasting winds of at least gale force continuing through Thursday night in the Santa Barbara Channel. The strong winds are expected to generate high seas of up to 12 feet in the inner waters and 18 foot seas in the outer waters. Mariners are urged to maintain safe harbor during this time and monitor NOAA weather radio for the latest information, forecasts and warnings.

Mariners are also urged to file a float plan which is a written statement of the details of an intended voyage usually filed with a friend, neighbor and/or marina operator; a document that specifically describes the vessel, equipment, crew, and itinerary of a planned voyage. (For more information about float plans visit http://www.floatplancentral.org/)

For more potentially life-saving information along with how to take a boating safety course or get a free vessel safety check from the Coast Guard Auxiliary visit http://www.uscgboating.org/. The U.S. Coast Guard Auxiliary is the uniformed civilian component of the United States Coast Guard. Created by an Act of Congress in 1939, the Auxiliary directly supports the Coast Guard in all missions, except military and direct law enforcement actions. The Coast Guard Auxiliary is an integral part of the United States Coast Guard. For more information visit http://www.cgaux.org/ if you are ready to join visit http://join.cgaux.org/ .

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U.S. Coast Guard Auxiliary gets good news on the eve of National Safe Boating Week - sort of?

2008-05-16T00:34:00.001-07:00

Information Contact:
Anthony Turner, Chief
External Communications Division
National Department of Public Affairs
Email: anthony.turner@yahoo.com
(310) 908-6950

PRESS RELEASE

The good news is deaths resulting from recreational boating accidents fell in 2007, according to figures just announced by the United States Coast Guard’s Boating Safety Division. The count dropped from 710 in 2006 to 688 in 2007, the lowest figure since 2004 and third lowest since the Coast Guard began collecting statistics specifically related to recreational boating. "It's gratifying to see the number of deaths going down," commented Rear Admiral James Watson, Director of Prevention Policy. "We hope that this is a result of more boaters adopting responsible boating behaviors, such as making sure that everyone on board is wearing properly-fitting Coast Guard-approved life jackets at all times."

“Receiving this news on the eve of National Safe Boating Week (NSBW) is certainly good news, sort of, since 688 deaths is still 688 deaths too many” said Coast Guard Auxiliary Member Trent Kelly who will be conducting vessel examinations at a boat launch ramp in southern California this coming weekend. “When we convince one boater to wear his or her life jacket or take a boating safety class then it is well worth it.”

This year marks 60 years since, in recognition of the importance of safe boating practices, Congress, by joint resolution approved a proclamation signed by President Eisenhower, making the seven-day period prior to Memorial Day weekend as "National Safe Boating Week." This year NSBW is from the 17th to the 23rd of May and like Kelly in southern California and across the Nation, many agencies are working to teach recreational boaters how they can make boating safer. These include the U.S. Coast Guard, National Safe Boating Council, National Association of State Boating Law Administrators, U.S. Army Corp of Engineers and the U.S. Power Squadron.

The Coast Guard Boating Safety Division also released figures that revealed while fatalities decreased, other measures - including injuries, number of accidents, and property damage - rose significantly. Injuries rose from 3,474 in 2006 to 3,686 in 2007. Reported recreational boating accidents, which reached 4,967 in 2006, climbed to 5,223. Property damage, which was a record $43,670,424 in 2006 rose further to $53,288,858 last year.

Top causes for all accidents revealed by 2007 statistics remain fairly consistent with previous years. Operator inattention, careless/reckless operation, passenger/skier behavior, excessive speed, and alcohol use rank as the top five contributing factors. Alcohol use is the leading contributing factor in fatal boating accidents; it was listed as the leading factor in 21% of the deaths. Where instruction data was submitted, three fourths of the deaths occurred on boats where the operator had not received boating safety instruction. Over two-thirds of those killed in boating accidents drowned, and of those, 90 percent were not wearing life jackets.

The Coast Guard Auxiliary is asking all boat owners and operators to help reduce fatalities, injuries, property damage, and healthcare costs related to recreational boating accidents by taking personal responsibility for their own safety and the safety of their passengers. Essential steps include always wearing a life jacket and requiring passengers to do the same; never operating a boat, that includes personal water craft and paddle craft such as a kayak or canoe while under the influence; completing a boating safety course; and getting a free vessel safety check annually by local Coast Guard Auxiliary or Power Squadrons, and your State boating agency vessel examiners.

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Coast Guard To "Drop Anchor" On Monday

2008-05-16T00:24:00.001-07:00

Coast Guard Public Affairs
Detachment Los Angeles
MEDIA ADVISORY
Date: 15 May 2008
Contact: PADET L.A.
(310) 521-4260
Demonstration for Media
The Coast Guard and Coast Guard Auxiliary will hold a demonstration for the media on Monday morning to help highlight safe boating and kick off the National Safe Boating Week which begins Saturday.
During the demonstration, media can talk to boating safety experts, see signal flair demonstrations an even have the chance for a reporter to participate in an inflatable personal floatation device (life vest) demonstration in the water.
When: Monday, 19 May, 2008
Where: 13871 West Fiji Way, Marina Del Rey, 90292
The demonstration will start at 8 a.m. Interested media should show up at 7:30 a.m.
Statistics show that California is second in the nation behind Florida for boating accidents with 569 reported in 2006 and third in fatalities with 42. The purpose of this event is to highlight all the proper safety gear that each boater should have on their boat and stress the use of life jackets to prevent fatalities.
At the end of Boating Safety Week, over the Memorial Day weekend, the Coast Guard and Coast Guard Auxiliary will also be offering FREE boat checks at various locations in the LA area so boaters can see if they have everything they are required to have before getting out on the water. If law enforcement stops them on the water without all the proper gear on board they can be fined for it, ours will be free
With the February nationwide switch to all Digital from analog we want to also stress to boaters that signals from the old analog Emergency Position Indicating Radio Beacons (121.1 MHz) will no longer be monitored. Only the new 406 MHz EPIRBs will be usable and they need to make sure they have the right one.
If you are interested or would like more information, please call Lt. j.g. Andrew Munoz at 310-521-3610 or Public Affairs at 310-521-4260.
http://www.uscgboating.org/
Related news releases
https://www.uscglosangeles.com/go/doc/834/202059/
https://www.uscglosangeles.com/go/doc/834/201801/
http://www.uscglosangeles.com/go/doc/834/202150/
http://www.uscglosangeles.com/go/doc/834/202969/
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2008 North American Safe Boating Campaign Launched May 10th with the 3rd “Annual Safe Boating Expo” at Coast Guard Station Channel Islands

2008-05-15T23:45:00.000-07:00

CONTACT:
HENRY GOLDMAN,
U.S.COAST GUARD AUXILIARY
PUBLIC AFFAIRS
805-985-7740

CGAUXPA@YAHOO.COM

Channel Islands Harbor, CA., (May 15,2007) – In preparation for the 2007 boating season, the National Safe Boating Week (NSBW) scheduled for May 17th –May 23rd. nationwide, Channel Islands Harbor Patrol in partnership with the U.S.Coast Guard, the U.S.Coast Guard Auxiliary, the U.S.Power Squadron and local air & sea rescue agencies launched its own Exposition before the hectic Memorial Day Weekend . NSBW is designed to promote key boating safety initiatives to more than 78 million recreational boaters nationwide.

Dubbed “Wear It!”, this multi-year initiative puts life jackets center stage, emphasizing that the number one proven safety precaution on the water is life jacket wear. Boaters can stay safe on our nation’s waters by adopting a second nature approach to wearing their life jackets. Today’s life jackets offer the latest in technological innovations custom-designed for individual water activities and long days on the boat.

This year’s event drew twice the attendance of last year. Boaters and families were treated to a search and rescue exercise performed in the harbor in front the Coast Guard Station, two on the water demonstrations were performed with a simulated fire aboard a sailboat. The first demonstration featured the Ventura County Sheriff’s Department helicopter dropping two rescue swimmers to “victims” in the water, and the Swift Water Rescue Team transporting them to shore aboard their unique PWC (Personal Water Craft). The second demonstration involved a Coast Guard helicopter dropping a rescue swimmer to a “victim” in the water, then hoisting them both back on board for medical evaluation ashore. All participating agencies’ equipment remained on display all day for viewing.

The Coast Guard Station, Coast Guard Cutter Halibut, an 87 foot patrol boat and smaller boats were open for tours. Forty-eight excited children and parents had the opportunity to ride out of the harbor on the Halibut, while the 41’ CG Utility Boat took out sixty children and parents.

Boaters brought in well over 500 outdated flares for disposal. They viewed safety demonstrations on the latest styles of life preservers, deployment of a life raft, and received hands on experience in the proper use of fire extinguishers. Local vendors and government agencies presented all with free brochures, and to see the latest in safety equipment.
Winners of our all day raffle walked away a VHF Radio, CPR Red Cross classes, handheld GPS, and inflatable life vests, all donated by West Marine of Port Hueneme, and the Red Cross of Ventura.

Attendees came away from the Exposition with first hand experience on how our local Coast Guard, Fire Department, Sheriff, and Harbor Patrol work in together for on the water emergencies. They also gained knowledge of safety measures, acquired safety materials, and schedules of boating classes available to the public offered by the U.S.Coast Guard Auxiliary and the Power Squadron.

Free Vessel Examinations were performed for by the Coast Guard Auxiliary members at the Channel Islands Harbor and Ventura Harbor Boat Ramp. Free safety checks will continue each weekend at the ramps through the end of May. Those passing, will receive a decal. During the Memorial Day weekend the U.S.Coast Guard will be doing their own inspections on the water and if the vessel does not pass the safety check they could face fines and be ordered back to the dock.

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National Safe Boating Week Children's Lifejacket Trade-in

2008-05-13T14:53:00.001-07:00

U.S. Coast Guard
Sector Los Angeles-Long Beach

Press Release

Date: May 13, 2008

Contact:
CAL BOATING
Phaedra Bota
916-263-8188
Public Info: Gloria Sandoval
916-263-0788

U.S. Coast Guard Public Affairs
Andrew Munoz
(310) 521-3610

U.S. Coast Guard Auxiliary
Public Affairs
Anthony Turner
(310) 908-6950

LOS ANGELES - The California Department of Boating and Waterways (Cal Boating) in partnership with the Sacramento Safe Kids Coalition will be holding a children's lifejacket trade-in at Sam's Clubs in Long Beach, Irvine, and Riverside, Calif. on Friday, May 23, 2008 from 2 p.m. until 4 p.m.

The public is invited to bring in lifejackets for inspection. Boating safety experts from the U.S. Coast Guard, U.S. Coast Guard Auxiliary, and Cal Boating will be on hand to inspect lifejackets and answer questions. Children's lifejackets that are found to be in disrepair will be exchanged for a new one (while supplies last, one new children's lifejacket per family).

California law requires children under 12 who are riding in a boat 26-feet or less to wear a Coast Guard-approved lifejacket.

Trade-ins will be accepted at the following Sam's Clubs:

7480 Carson St, Long Beach
6363 Valley Springs Pkwy, Riverside
16555 Von Karman Ave, Irvine

Community Partners - Cal Boating, Radio Disney, CBS Radio, Sacramento Safe Kids Coalition, Drowning Accident Rescue Team (DART), Sam's Club, U.S. Coast Guard, and U.S. Coast Guard Auxiliary - come together to bring you a water safety event for National Safe Boating Week (May 17-24, 2008). The focus is on preventing water-related accidents involving children.

Boating Safety Resources:

Wear It California Lifejacket Campaign - http://www.wearitcalifornia.com/
California Department of Boating and Waterways - http://www.boatsmarter.com/
U.S. Coast Guard Boating Safety - http://www.uscgboating.org/

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California second in boating accidents, third in fatalities

2008-05-13T12:36:00.001-07:00

U.S. Coast Guard
Sector Los Angeles-Long Beach

Press Release

Date: May 13, 2008

Contact: Lt. j.g. Andrew Munoz
(310) 521-3610

LOS ANGELES - According to U.S. Coast Guard statistics released in July 2007, California is second in boating accidents with 569 reported and third in fatalities with 42 reported in 2006. Florida leads the nation with 633 accidents and 63 fatalities. With this year's boating season just around the corner, this is a concern for the Coast Guard.

"Most boating accidents happen during the day and in good weather," said Lt. j.g. Andrew Muñoz, spokesman for the Coast Guard in Los Angeles. "Accidents are usually caused by inexperience, inattention, or irresponsible behavior," said Muñoz.

California has seen a steady drop in accidents from 797 accidents in 2003. This has been attributed to statewide safety campaigns and boater education offered through organizations such as the U.S. Coast Guard Auxiliary and U.S. Power Squadrons.

"About 70 percent of boaters involved in accidents have never taken a safe boating course. Education and awareness is the best weapon we have in preventing accidents," said Muñoz.

Lifejacket wear is also critical to surviving a boating accident, 85 percent of all boating accident fatalities nationwide were due to sudden, unexpected capsizing or falls overboard. About 90 percent of boaters who drown were not wearing a lifejacket.

There has been an increase in regular wear of lifejackets with the recent introduction of more compact and lightweight options.

"Coast Guard members wear lifejackets at all times when we are underway on our small boats. We encourage recreational boaters to do the same," said Muñoz.

Boating safety statistics are compiled by the U.S. Coast Guard Office of Boating Safety through cooperation of state boating administrators. The report only includes federally reportable accidents that resulted in over $2000 in property damage, necessitated medical treatment beyond first aid, or resulted in a fatality.

National Safe Boating Week is May 17-24, 2008. Boating safety information and the current boating safety statistic report is available on the U.S. Coast Guard boating safety web site at: http://www.uscgboating.org/.

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Get your free boat safety checks before hitting the water!

2008-05-12T17:34:00.001-07:00

DATE: May 12, 2008 09:22:13 PST

U.S. Coast Guard
Sector Los Angeles-Long Beach

Press Release

Date: May 12, 2008

Contact:
Lt. j.g. Andrew Munoz
U.S. Coast Guard Public Affairs
(310) 521-3610

Anthony Turner
U.S. Coast Guard Auxiliary
Public Affairs
(310) 908-6950

LOS ANGELES - In conjunction with National Safe Boating Week, the U.S. Coast Guard Auxiliary will be providing free boat safety checks at five southern California locations on Saturday, May 24, 2008 beginning at 8 a.m.

"Memorial weekend traditionally kicks off the boating season. So before hitting the water, the Coast Guard urges boaters to make sure their safety equipment is in order," said Lt. j.g. Andrew Muñoz spokesman for the Coast Guard in Los Angeles.

Volunteer vessel examiners inspect boats to ensure that required safety equipment is present and in functional condition. The examiners also check for any basic mechanical problems, make sure registration and documentation are current, and offer information on a variety boating safety issues. Examinations can be conducted on any type of watercraft from boats, jet-ski's, to kayaks.

Lifejackets, fire extinguishers, and distress signals are just some of the items that are required by federal regulations. The Coast Guard also suggests boaters equip themselves with a marine VHF radio, GPS device, and 406 MHz EPIRB (Emergency Position Indicating Radio Beacon).

"We want boaters to be safe, responsible and enjoy their time on the water. It's our goal to have more boaters take advantage of these free boat safety checks. That's why we're working with the Coast Guard Auxiliary to have vessel examiners out at popular boating areas," said Muñoz.

Aside from being prepared for an emergency, one advantage of getting the free safety check from the Coast Guard Auxiliary is that there aren't any penalties associated with not passing. Those who do pass will be able to display this year's vessel exam decal on their boat.

According to Muñoz, the U.S. Coast Guard and local law enforcement will be on patrol conducting their own inspections. Unlike the inspections offered by the Coast Guard Auxiliary, if you fail to pass one conducted on the water by law enforcement you could face fines and be ordered back to the dock.

National Safe Boating Week is May 17-24, 2008. U.S. Coast Guard Auxiliary vessel examiners will be at the following locations on Saturday, May 24, 2008 beginning at 8 a.m.

Davies Launch Ramp, Long Beach, Calif.
Cabrillo Launch Ramp, San Pedro, Calif.
Newport Dunes Launch Ramp, Newport Harbor, Calif.
Pyramid Lake
Castaic Lake

Boaters can find more information about boating safety at the U.S. Coast Guard's boating safety web site at: http://www.uscgboating.org.

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Arizona to Observe National Safe Boating Week

2008-05-08T20:57:00.000-07:00

Governor Napolitano proclaims May 17-23, 2008 Arizona Safe Boating Week

Phoenix – In observance of National Safe Boating Week (NSBW) and with the Memorial Day weekend approaching, Mary Klock, Division Captain for Arizona’s Coast Guard Auxiliary urged boaters and anglers to be safe while on the water. In honor of NSBW, Governor Jane Napolitano also issued a proclamation recognizing May 17-23, 2007 as Arizona Safe Boating Week. “Memorial Day weekend is traditionally the start of the boating season. Many individuals will be out on the water enjoying the beautiful weather, but it’s also important that they’re mindful of basic safety,” said Klock. “I encourage those who haven’t already taken a boating safety course to do so. The techniques that are taught in the safety education classes are potentially life saving.”

Safety education courses are a key to the state’s boating safety effort. Nationwide, nearly 90 percent of all reported fatalities on boats involved boat operators who had not received boating safety instruction.

State law requires anyone age 12 or younger to wear a life jacket while aboard any watercraft at all times when the boat is underway. The Coast Guard Auxiliary urges everyone to wear a life jacket when the boat is underway, not tied up, not anchored, or not aground. Everyone, regardless of age, is required to wear a life jacket while operating a personal watercraft or jet ski.

Statistics compiled by U.S. Coast Guard based on data submitted by Arizona Game & Fish Department show that 14 people died and 151 other people were injured in boating-related accidents on Arizona waters in 2006 (latest year for which data is available). There were a total of 209 boating accidents in Arizona that year.

Accident reports indicate several people may have survived had they been wearing a life jacket. In those fatal accidents, most people who died were on boats in which the boat operators either had not taken or it was not known whether they had taken a formal boat safety education course.

Among the primary causes of boating accidents are careless or reckless operation, operator inattention, equipment failure, hazardous water conditions and alcohol use.

“During this time of year, a lot of people are out on the water, some experienced and others who are going out for the first time,” said Klock. “This can make for a dangerous mix if people are not being safe. I encourage individuals who plan on drinking to do it on shore; boaters and anglers alike are reminded to be attentive and equally as important, people should always wear a life jacket. Those simple steps can help reduce the risk of accident or serious injury.”

As a kick off to National Safe Boating Week, the Coast Guard Auxiliary and U.S. Power Squadron will conduct courtesy boat inspections Saturday morning, May 17 at the Ten Lane Ramp at Lake Pleasant. They will be checking boats for proper registration, availability of personal flotation devices, and to ensure lights are in working order, among other things. This is a non-law enforcement activity aimed to help boater comply with the law and to be safe on the water. A Coast Guard HH-60F, Jayhawk helicopter will also be demonstrating air-sea rescue techniques that morning. This is all part of the Arizona Safe Boating Celebration and National Safe Boating Week in Arizona.

Text of the Arizona Governor Janet Napolitano’s proclamation is as follows:

WHEREAS, on average, 700 people die each year in boating-related accidents in the U.S.; nearly 70% of these are fatalities caused by drowning; and

WHEREAS, the vast majority of these accidents are caused by human error or poor judgment and not by the boat, equipment, or environmental factors; and

WHEREAS, a significant number of boaters who lose their lives by drowning each year would be alive today had they worn their life jackets; and

WHEREAS, boating knowledge and skills are important in reducing human error, improving judgment, and reducing accidents. The U.S. Coast Guard Auxiliary and the Phoenix Sail and Power Squadron pledge to continue training Arizona boaters in safe boating practices.

THEREFORE, I, Janet Napolitano, Governor of the State of Arizona, do hereby proclaim May 17 – 23, 2087 as

ARIZONA SAFE BOATING WEEK

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SAFE BOATING CELEBRATION

2008-05-08T15:28:00.001-07:00

For additional information: Dawna Taylor, Public Information Officer

Maricopa County Parks and

Recreation Department

Office: (602) 506-1114 – Cell: (602) 525-5733

Teresa Guillen, Public Information Officer

Arizona Game and Fish Department

Office: (623) 236-7377

Tom Nunes, Public Affairs Officer

U.S. Coast Guard Auxiliary – Arizona

Office: (602) 617-1979

May 8, 2008

Is your boat ready for the water?

(Peoria) – Is your watercraft safe? If you hesitated while answering this question, then you won’t want to miss the 2008 Arizona Safe Boating Celebration at Lake Pleasant Regional Park on May 17 from 8 a.m. to 12 p.m. Free vessel safety checks will be offered by the U.S. Power Squadron and U.S. Coast Guard Auxiliary at the ten and four-lane boat ramps.

The average check takes approximately 15-minutes and can be performed while you’re preparing to launch your boat. During the check, examiners will review federal and state boating laws and recommend equipment that will help to ensure that your boat is operating safely. Experts will also be on hand to provide information on how to select the right life-jacket, the effects of carbon monoxide poisoning, the consequences for operating a boat under the influence of alcohol and those pesky aquatic hitchhikers – Quagga mussels.

Don’t have a boat? No problem. Visit the vintage life-jacket display to see how life-jackets have evolved over the years or take a kayak out for a test drive at the ten-lane boat ramp. Guests will also be treated to a wakeboard demonstration and an H-60 Jayhawk helicopter swimmer rescue. Prizes will be raffled off throughout the morning. The first 200 vessel owners who receive a safety check will receive a discount coupon for future park entry. The event is included in the $5 per vehicle park entry fee (plus $2 per watercraft).

For more information on the event, visit www.azsafeboating.org. Lake Pleasant Regional Park is located at 41835 N. Castle Hot Springs Road in Morristown. From I-17, take SR-74 (Carefree Highway) west; turn right at Mile Post 19; three miles to the park entrance. For additional information on the park, visit www.maricopa.gov/parks/lake_pleasant.

## 30 ##

Dawna L. Taylor

Public Information Officer

Maricopa County Parks and Recreation Department

234 N. Central Avenue, Ste. 6400

Phoenix, Arizona 85004

(602) 506-1114(602) 506-4692 - fax(602) 525-5733 - cell

From hiking on a barrier-free trail, to horseback riding along a creek, Maricopa County Parks offer visitors the best of the Sonoran Desert. To learn more, visit the Parks Website at www.maricopa.gov/parks!

Coast Guard Helicopter to Demonstrate Rescue Techniques at Lake Pleasant, AZ

2008-05-06T23:26:00.001-07:00

Date: May 7, 2008

Contact: Tom Nunes

Deputy Chief,

National Public Affairs Department

Email: tnunes@auxpa.org

Tel: 602-617-1979

Media Advisory

Phoenix, AZ- A United States Coast Guard H-60, Jayhawk, helicopter will demonstrate rescue techniques at Lake Pleasant on May 17, 2008 at 9:30 a.m. The helicopter from U.S. Coast Guard Air Station San Diego will deploy rescue swimmers into the lake demonstrating current air-sea rescue practices. Arizona based Coast Guard Auxiliary vessels (that report to Coast Guard Sector San Diego) will provide a security zone to ensure spectator safety. The Coast Guard demonstration is part of the 5^th Annual Arizona Safe Boating Celebration jointly sponsored by the U.S. Coast Guard Auxiliary, the Phoenix Sail and Power Squadron, Arizona Game & Fish Department, and Maricopa County Parks.

Learning how to operate a boat safely and avoiding excessive speed, alcohol, and carbon monoxide poisoning will be featured a this years Celebration. Free boat safety checks taking less than 15 minutes will be provided offered by qualified Coast Guard Auxiliary and U. S. Power Squadron members. The first 200 vessels that checked will receive a discount coupon for park future entry. Various product giveaways, mini-boating safety seminars, and related activities will help add to this great family outing.

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NOT ALL BOATNG ACCIDENTS HAPPEN ON THE WATER

2008-05-05T10:59:00.000-07:00

PRESS RELEASE

May 5, 2008

For More Information Contact:
Anthony Turner, Chief
External Communications Division
National Department of Public Affairs
Email: anthony.turner@yahoo.com
(310) 908-6950

LOS ANGELES, Calif. Some boating accidents occur while transiting to and from the water and quite frequently on the launch ramp. The U.S. Coast Guard Auxiliary says “a successful boating outing begins when you leave home and ends when you safely return home.” Since the majority of recreational boats in the United States are transported to and from the water it is important that boaters take as much care transporting their boat, whether it be a power boat, sailboat, paddle craft or personal water craft as they do operating their boat on the water.

When it comes to trailered boats nine out of ten trailering malfunctions and accidents can be directly traced back to a failure to dedicate some time to the most basic preventative maintenance. Wheel bearings, suspension parts, lights, and a host of other components reacquire constant attention, to help insure any trailering trip smooth and hassle free. Special attention to the tow vehicle’s hitch is a good idea, as that is the only link between the tow vehicle and trailer. Also consider the fact that one needs a special license and classification to drive things like motorcycles, school busses and vehicles with air brakes like semi-trailer trucks, gravel trucks, etc. But just about anyone can go out and buy a $30,000 boat and trailer, attach it to his/her car… and simply drive away. No special training is required beforehand and no special license classification is needed. Anyone who has ever hauled a boat around for a number of years knows that it may not be too difficult to drive in a straight line at low speeds. But when it comes to things like driving at highway speeds, passing other vehicles, high winds, backing up, etc… the task becomes much more difficult than one might think.

The U.S. Coast Guard Office of Boating Safety offers safety tips for trailering, pre-launching preparations, launching, retrieval and boat storing at
http://www.uscgboating.org/safety/metlife_archived_9-21-2007/boat_trailer.htm.

For more potentially life-saving information along with how to take a boating safety course or get a free vessel safety check from the Coast Guard Auxiliary visit http://www.uscgboating.org/. The U.S. Coast Guard Auxiliary is the uniformed civilian component of the United States Coast Guard. Created by an Act of Congress in 1939, the Auxiliary directly supports the Coast Guard in all missions, except military and direct law enforcement actions. The Coast Guard Auxiliary is an integral part of the United States Coast Guard. For more information visit http://www.cgaux.org/ if you are ready to join visit http://join.cgaux.org/ . (photo credit: U.S. Navy)

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WHAT IF YOU CALL 911 AND NO ONE EVER ANSWERS?

2008-05-03T00:15:00.001-07:00

PRESS RELEASE

May 2, 2008
For More Information Contact:

Anthony Turner, Chief
External Communications Division
National Department of Public Affairs
Email: anthony.turner@yahoo.com
(310) 908-6950

WHAT IF YOU CALL 911 AND NO ONE EVER ANSWERS?

Starting February 1, 2009 that is exactly what will happen for boaters who have the older model EPIRBs (Emergency Position Indicating Radio Beacons) that transmit a distress alert on 121.5 MHz or 243 MHz. The activation of an EPIRB is like making a 911 call to search and rescue authorities. After February 1, 2009 the older model EPIRBs will no longer be monitored by satellite, and are likely to go completely undetected in an emergency. Only distress alerts from 406 MHz beacons will continue to be detected and processed by search and rescue satellites worldwide. Although February 1, 2009 is still a long time from now, the traditional start of the 2008 boating season is just a couple of weeks away and while preparing for the season the U.S. Coast Guard Auxiliary recommends that the new EPIRBs be part of the season start-up shopping list.

Although recreational boaters are not required to carry an EPIRB, they are strongly recommended for ALL boaters, including kayaks and other paddle craft, along with a VHF-FM marine band radio. The 406 MHz signal sent by the newer EPIRBs when a mariner encounters distress are picked up by the COSPAS/SARSAT satellite constellation, which determines the EPIRBs position through triangulation. EPIRBs with embedded GPS are even more helpful in quickly finding a distressed boater. With GPS coordinates, the position of distress is pinpointed almost immediately. Without GPS, it may take two or three satellite passes to come up with a good, triangulated position. According to Captain Chip Strangfeld, Commander of Coast Guard Sector San Diego, “the time saved by EPIRBs could mean the difference between life and death.”

As long as the new 406 MHz beacon has been registered (which is required by law), search and rescue authorities can quickly confirm that the distress is real, who they are looking for, and a description of the vessel or aircraft. This means an effective search can be initiated even before a final distress location has been determined for non-GPS EPIRBs. It also means that a false activation may be resolved with a phone call to the beacon owner, saving resources for actual distresses.

Registration is free and can be done on the internet at: www.beaconregistration.noaa.gov or it can be mailed/faxed to NOAA by calling 1-888-212-SAVE. Beacon registrations must be updated at least every two years or when information such as emergency contact phone numbers and other vital information changes. This registration information is only available to authorized search and rescue personnel. It saves lives.

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U.S. COAST GUARD AUXILIARY CONTINUES TO PROMOTE NEIGHBORHOOD WATCH PROGRAM AT WATERFRONT

2008-04-28T14:39:00.000-07:00

PRESS RELEASE

April 28, 2008

For More Information Contact:
Anthony Turner, Chief
External Communications Division
National Department of Public Affairs
Email: anthony.turner@yahoo.com
(310) 908-6950

U.S. COAST GUARD AUXILIARY CONTINUES TO PROMOTE NEIGHBORHOOD WATCH PROGRAM AT WATERFRONT

SAN PEDRO, Calif. Not long after September 11, 2001, America’s Waterway Watch (AWW), a public outreach program, that encourages participants to simply report suspicious activity to the Coast Guard and/or other law enforcement agencies was born. Today, America's Waterway Watch (AWW), a combined effort of the Coast Guard and its Reserve and Auxiliary components, continues to grow, enlisting the active participation of those who live, work or play around America's waterfront areas. Coast Guard Reserve personnel concentrate on connecting with businesses and government agencies, while Auxiliary Members of the Coast Guard focus on building AWW awareness among the recreational boating public and public stakeholders, such as marina’s.

Why do we need America's Waterway Watch? America's coasts, rivers, bridges, dams, tunnels, ports, ships, military bases, and waterside industries may be the terrorists' next targets. Though waterway security is better than ever, with more than 95000 miles of shoreline, over 290,000 square miles of water, and approximately 70 million recreational boaters in the United States, the Coast Guard and local first responders cannot do the job alone.
America's Waterway Watch is similar to the Coast Watch program of World War II, which caused the early growth of the Coast Guard Auxiliary, who were mobilized as a uniformed, civilian component of the Coast Guard to scan the coast for U-boats and saboteurs attempting to infiltrate the shores of the United States. Today, America's Waterway Watch goes one step further: It calls on ordinary citizens who spend much of their time on and around America's waterways - to assist in the War on Terrorism on the Domestic Front.

In addition to its public outreach efforts the Coast Guard Auxiliary has also increased it public presence and outreach efforts in major marina’s and ports, such as in southern California and the Port of Los Angeles/Long Beach (see photo below)

For more information about the America’s Waterway Watch program visit http://www.americaswaterwaywatch.org/index.htm If you are interested in assisting in a more formal capacity, either as a paid professional or trained volunteer, you should consider a civilian or military career with the United States Coast Guard (http://www.gocoastguard.com/jobs.html) or joining the Coast Guard Auxiliary (http://www.cgaux.org/).

The U.S. Coast Guard Auxiliary is the uniformed civilian component of the United States Coast Guard. Created by an Act of Congress in 1939, the Auxiliary directly supports the Coast Guard in all missions, except military and direct law enforcement actions. The Coast Guard Auxiliary is an integral part of the United States Coast Guard. For more information visit http://www.cgaux.org/ if you are ready to join visit http://join.cgaux.org/ .

Pictured: As part of its increased presence in marinas Coast Guard Auxiliary Members George Assali (Left) and Tony Dallendorfer conduct an courtesy examination of a Uninspected Passenger Vessel (UPV) in Dana Point, CA.)

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COAST GUARD AUXILIARY/OTHER AGENCIES RESPOND TO SIMULATED VESSEL EXPLOSION IN LONG BEACH HARBOR

2008-04-24T13:33:00.000-07:00

PRESS RELEASE

For More Information Contact:

Anthony Turner,

Public Affairs Officer

Email: anthony.turner@yahoo.com

(310) 908-6950

COAST GUARD AUXILIARY/OTHER AGENCIES RESPOND TO SIMULATED VESSEL EXPLOSION IN LONG BEACH HARBOR

LONG BEACH, Calif. This morning several local Long Beach agencies and organizations participated in a joint operation between the Aquarium of the Pacific (AOP), U.S. Coast Guard Auxiliary, St. Mary Medical Center in Long Beach, Associated Radio Amateurs of Long Beach, and the Long Beach Police and Fire Departments. The purpose of the operation was to test the readiness of the various agencies to respond to an incident near or around the Rainbow Harbor area of Long Beach and to communicate using the Incident Command System which is a nationally adopted system for managing incidents.

The incident scenario provided for a simulated explosion and fire aboard a pleasure yacht near the Queen Mary area of Long Beach Harbor. The scenario also called for 13 simulated victims whose injuries ranged from moderate to at least one fatality. All of the victims were recovered and evacuated on to Coast Guard Auxiliary Vessels that were on simulated safety patrols, and transported to waiting ground transportation to St. Mary Medical Center.

According to Coast Guard Auxiliarist Everett Harper “what made this exercise so valuable as a training tool was the degree of reality injected into the simulation, we (rescuers on the water) had no idea what to expect.”

The Coast Guard Auxiliary routinely conducts safety patrols on coastal waters, rivers and lakes throughout the United States and it territories. All members of the Coast Guard Auxiliary are required to complete incident command system training.

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U.S. Coast Guard Auxiliary is Recognized for 60 Years of Boating Safety Education

2008-04-23T22:01:00.000-07:00

PHOTO RELEASE

For more information contact:
Anthony Turner, Chief
External Communications Division
National Department of Public Affairs
Email: dvc-ax@auxpa.org
(310) 908-6950

SAN DIEGO, Calif. The U.S. Coast Guard Auxiliary is recognized for 60 years of boating safety education at the 12th annual International Boating and Water Safety Summit (IBWSS.) held in San Diego, CA.

Presenting the proclamation are Ruth Wood, Chair, National Safe Boating Council, and Arlyn Hendricks, President, National Water Safety Congress. Accepting the plaque on behalf of the Coast Guard Auxiliary is Commodore Warren McAdams- National Chief of Staff, and Robin Freeman, Chief - Education Department.

The proclamation was signed by John Fetterman, President, NASBLA.

The U.S. Coast Guard Auxiliary is the uniformed civilian component of the United States Coast Guard. Created by an Act of Congress in 1939, the Auxiliary directly supports the Coast Guard in all missions, except military and direct law enforcement actions. The Coast Guard Auxiliary is an integral part of the United States Coast Guard. For more information visit http://www.cgaux.org/ if you are ready to join visit http://join.cgaux.org/ .

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SIZE DOES MATTER – WHEN CHOOSING A LIFE JACKET

2008-04-22T10:19:00.000-07:00

Press Release

For more information,

Contact: Anthony Turner

Chief, External Communications

Email: DVC-AX@Auxpa.org

310-908-6950

www.auxpa.org

There’s no doubt that life jackets save lives. In the United States an average of nine people a day die as a result of drowning - deaths that could have been prevented. But a life jacket that does not fit properly can put a person at risk of drowning. Proper fit is imperative for safety on the water. The U.S. Coast Guard Auxiliary has a few tips to follow when choosing a life jacket.

· Choose only a U.S. Coast Guard (USCG) approved life jacket, and the correct size for the weight of the person. The USCG stamp of approval, size, whether it is for a child or an adult, and appropriate weight of the wearer should be listed inside the jacket. A person’s chest size and stomach size may come into play when selecting the right life jacket.

· Use the “touchdown” test to see if your life jacket fits properly; Lift your arms above your head as if calling a touchdown. The chest portion of the jacket should not touch your chin when you look left, right or over your shoulder. If the jacket passes this test, it most likely fits. If possible try it out in shallow water. The life jacket should not ride up on your body. However, ride-up may happen if your stomach is larger than your chest.

· Weigh a child and measure for chest size under the arms before shopping for a child’s life jacket. A properly fitting jacket should be snug but not tight.

· Check for proper fit of a life jacket on a child. Wearing the jacket, the child should stand normally with arms at his or her sides. Grab the jacket at the shoulders and firmly lift up. The jacket does not fit if it moves more than three inches up and down the child’s body during the test.

· Ensure a life jacket for an infant or child has a crotch strap to help keep the life jacket on, an oversized float collar to help keep the head out of the water and a grab loop for easier water rescue. All straps should be intact and fastened at all times.

So what is the safest life jacket? In terms of risk of drowning, the safest life jacket is the one you’re willing to wear! There are many good choices to keep safe on the water. Some of the choices are a better for certain situations than others, and therefore the choices are explained in the "Think Safe" life jacket pamphlet that is sold with every US Coast Guard approved life jacket. By reading the pamphlet, you can understand how to safely have fun on the water. For more information about life jacket types visit http://www.safeboatingcampaign.net/types.htm or http://www.boatingsidekicks.com/lifejackets.htm.

So what about the cost, aren’t life jackets expensive? Just keep in mind that no one thinks about the cost when they are in the water! The value of a life jacket could be priceless.

The U.S. Coast Guard Auxiliary is the uniformed civilian component of the United States Coast Guard. Created by an Act of Congress in 1939, the Auxiliary directly supports the Coast Guard in all missions, except military and direct law enforcement actions. The Coast Guard Auxiliary is an integral part of the United States Coast Guard. For more information visit www.cgaux.org if you are ready to join visit http://join.cgaux.org/ .

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Coast Guard Auxiliarists Presented Awards by National Water Safety Council

2008-04-21T23:45:00.000-07:00

PRESS RELEASE

For More Information Contact:

Thomas Nunes, Deputy Chief

Public Affairs Department
Email: DC-Ad@auxpa.org
Tel: 480-759-5548
Cell: 602-617-1979

Coast Guard Auxiliarists Presented Awards by National Water Safety Congress

SAN DIEGO, Calif, Coast Guard Auxiliary Flotilla 5-6 in District 9ER; along with their partners the Alum Creek Lake Staff, U.S. Army Corps of Engineers; Central Ohio Safe Boating Council; and the Columbus Sail and Power Squadron were presented the Region One Award of Merit by the National Water Safety Congress (NWSC) at the International Boating & Water Safety Summit (IBWSS) in San Diego on April 18. Collectively, the group’s boating safety programs improved safe boating on Berlin Lake in Ohio.

Coast Guard Auxiliary Member David Esparza, who serves in Phoenix area of Arizona was presented with a Letter of Commendation. Esparza’s efforts in boating safety as an instructor, a qualification examiner and conducting safety/security patrols significantly contributed to making Arizona’s waterways safer and more enjoyable by those who use them.

Each year NWSC presents awards at the IBWSS to selected individuals and organizations that have made outstanding contributions to water safety during the previous year. The National Water Safety Congress has an extensive award program to recognize those people who contribute to the safety of everyone who enjoys water recreation. One regional award per NWSC region and a number of Letters of Commendation are presented.

Recognition of those who contribute substantially to water safety is encouraged to further promote water and boating safety, helping to reduce the number of drowning and boating accidents now occurring each year.

NWSC's extensive award program recognizes contributions of many water safety professionals and dedicated volunteers. This is an opportunity to say "Thank You" and to inspire others to continue to give their best for water safety!

The U.S. Coast Guard Auxiliary is the uniformed civilian component of the United States Coast Guard. Created by an Act of Congress in 1939, the Auxiliary directly supports the Coast Guard in all missions, except military and direct law enforcement actions. The Coast Guard Auxiliary is an integral part of the United States Coast Guard. For more information visit http://www.cgaux.org/ if you are ready to join visit http://join.cgaux.org/ .

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KAYAKS AND CANOES KEEP COAST GUARD BUSY OVER THE WEEKEND

2008-04-15T22:41:00.001-07:00

PRESS RELEASE

For more information, contact:Anthony Turner
Chief, External Communications
Email: DVC-AX@Auxpa.org
310-908-6950 www.auxpa.org

KAYAKS AND CANOES KEEP COAST GUARD BUSY OVER THE WEEKEND

From Oregon to New Orleans to Philadelphia the U.S. Coast Guard stayed busy this past weekend rescuing kayakers and a canoeist. In Oregon the Coast Guard rescued a 30-year old male after his kayak overturned. The man was reportedly suffering from hypothermia when Coast Guard rescuers reached him; In New Orleans the Coast Guard rescued a man in the Bonnet Carre Spillway after the canoe he was aboard became stranded by the strong current; and in Philadelphia the Coast Guard, a tug boat crew and a boom boat crew rescued two kayakers after they capsized and were overtaken by water in the Delaware River. Both kayakers demonstrated early signs of hypothermia.

Stories like this are all too familiar and as the temperatures across the country warm more and more Americans will take to the water for recreation. The U.S. Coast Guard Auxiliary reminds paddle craft operators that a safe trip begins with assessing conditions and planning your trip, including the return. Data is available from a wide array of sources: buoys, NOAA forecasts, locals, previous trip reports, bar condition reports, and charts are starting points as the prudent mariner does not rely on a single source of information. And don’t forget to wear your lifejacket. Paddle craft operators are also encouraged to get a free Vessel Safety Check (yes paddle craft are considered vessels too and are required by federal law to maintain specific safety equipment onboard) To arrange for free Vessel Safety go to www.vesselsafetycheck.org and click on "I Want a VSC" to find a Vessel Examiner near you.

As the number of people turning to manual powered craft or paddle craft increases, so does the risk for novice or unprepared operators getting themselves into trouble. A recent study by the Outdoor Industry Foundation has shown a dramatic increase in the number of Americans participating in kayaking, a 23% increase in 2005 alone. Unfortunately, there has also been a rise in the number of paddle craft accidents.

Three knots is the average speed for a kayaker. In the wrong place, where a river narrows or underwater features force waters to speed up or create towering waves, experience and preparedness, not muscle power, are what matter. The prepared kayaker will have a boat appropriate for the task, be wearing protective clothing and a lifejacket, be carrying safety and communication equipment, have the skills to re-enter and roll, and use good judgment tempered with an appraisal of objective and subjective factors. The experienced paddler should also be in the company of one or more people equally versed in reading the water and self-rescue.

The U.S. Coast Guard Auxiliary is the uniformed civilian component of the United States Coast Guard. Created by an Act of Congress in 1939, the Auxiliary directly supports the Coast Guard in all missions, except military and direct law enforcement actions. The Coast Guard Auxiliary is an integral part of the United States Coast Guard. For more information visit www.cgaux.org if you are ready to be join visit http://join.cgaux.org/ .

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Children Got Caught Wearing Life Jackets

2008-04-09T22:55:00.000-07:00

Contact: Anthony Turner

Public Affairs Officer

(310) 908-6950
April 9, 2008

PHOTO RELEASE

MARINA del REY, Calif. U.S. Coast Guard Auxiliary Public Affairs Officer Veronica Ondrejech caught these two young boaters wearing lifejackets and awarded them "I got caught wearing my life jacket" t-shirts compliments of the Cal Boating. (U.S. Coast Guard Auxiliary Photo by Ray Pages)

Vessel Safety Checks Not Affected By Inflation - They Are Still Free

2008-04-09T20:24:00.000-07:00

Press Release

For more information, contact:

Anthony Turner

Chief, External Communications

Email: DVC-AX@Auxpa.org

310-908-6950
www.auxpa.org

Vessel Safety Checks Not Affected By Inflation – They Are Still Free

In 1947 when the Vessel Safety Check program began $10.00 had about the same buying power that $92.81 has today. And while the cost of everything has gone up, the U.S. Coast Guard Auxiliary can proudly proclaim one thing definitely has not – our free Vessel Safety Checks. Although free, the value of the life that may be saved by taking advantage of a Vessel Check Safety is priceless.

With the Memorial Day weekend (the traditional start of the recreational boating season) just around the corner, now is a great time for all boaters (from kayakers and jet skiers to year-round recreational boaters) to take advantage of a free Vessel Safety Check. Now is also a great time to take advantage of one of the many boating safety courses offered by the Coast Guard Auxiliary and become acquainted or even reacquainted with basic boating skills, seamanship and the most current rules and regulations that may also save a life or prevent an accident.

Vessel Safety Checks are conducted by qualified members of the U.S. Coast Guard Auxiliary and are the best way of learning about problems that might be a violation of state or federal laws and provide the boating public with additional safety tips that could possibly mitigate or eliminate preventable danger on the water.

To find a Vessel Examiner go to www.vesselsafetycheck.org and click on "I Want a VSC" to find a Vessel Examiner near you.

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ALCOHOL USE No. 1 CONTRIBUTING FACTOR IN BOATING FATALITIES

2008-04-09T18:41:00.000-07:00

PRESS RELEASE

For more information, contact:

Anthony Turner

Public Affairs Officer

District 11 - South

Email: DVC-AX@AUXPA.org

310-908-6950

ALCOHOL USE No. 1 CONTRIBUTING FACTOR IN BOATING FATALITIES

According to the most recent U.S. Coast Guard statistics alcohol use is ranked number one as a contributing factor in fatal boating accidents in the United States. There were 133 alcohol use related boating fatalities in 2006 (latest statistics available) this more than doubles the second highest ranking contributing factor; hazardous waters which contributed to 63 boating fatalities. Operator inattention ranked third with 51 fatalities.

Statistics show that responsible boaters can take a few simple steps to prevent most serious problems while on the water. The first action is to always wear a lifejacket since even though the factors listed above contribute to boating fatalities, ultimately drowning is the cause of death by far. Wearing a lifejacket alone will substantially reduce the likelihood a boating accident will result in a fatality. Taking a boating safety class and of course avoiding alcohol or drugs while boating, are also preventative measures that statistics confirm reduces the likelihood of a boating accident.

The Coast Guard Auxiliary provides instruction to boaters at all levels, from the fundamental to the advanced. The courses are taught by experienced and knowledgeable instructors committed to the highest standards of the U.S. Coast Guard. For more information about Coast Guard Auxiliary boating safety classes or to find a class please visit:

http://nws.cgaux.org/visitors/pe_visitor/index.html.

For more boating accident statistics visit the U.S. Coast Guard’s Office of Boating Safety website at http://www.uscgboating.org/.

The U.S. Coast Guard Auxiliary is the uniformed civilian component of the United States Coast Guard. Created by an Act of Congress in 1939, the Auxiliary directly supports the Coast Guard in all missions, except military and direct law enforcement actions. The Coast Guard’s motto is SEMPER PARATUS (ALWAYS READY). The Coast Guard Auxiliary is an integral part of the United Sates Coast Guard. For more information visit http://www.cgaux.org/ if you are ready to be SEMPER PARATUS visit http://join.cgaux.org/.

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