Shipmates, The following appeared on
MCPOCG Bowen's blog and, as we posted the
initial message on boat ejections from Captain Harrop, I wanted to also post the follow-up message.
To all those who operate our boats:
On 12 June, I issued the attached Cause for Action and sought help distributing it to every coxswain in the Coast Guard. I was pleased with how many people helped in this effort. While I know not everyone has seen it, I do believe many have. It is still being used at BM school and at the Boat Force Command Cadre course and other schools and venues. It has been circulated widely throughout the Auxiliary and even in the Canadian Auxiliary. But more importantly, I want to thank every coxswain who has gotten a Coast Guard boat underway during the past 3 months.
The last ejection from a Coast Guard boat occurred on 22 July, exactly three months ago. Our coxswains have safely operated their boats for 90 straight days without throwing anyone out. They have logged over 170,000 hours of safe and effective boat operations in support of all Coast Guard missions. That is impressive. Next time you see one, please pass on my heartfelt thanks for a job done well. Bravo Zulu! Thanks.
Now is not the time to let our guard down. Please continue to encourage our coxswains to be vigilant. The Office of Boat Forces goal is to complete 2010 without a single boat ejection. Coast Guard coxswains operate in a very dangerous environment and we must do everything in our power to ensure they are enabled to bring their crews back safely. Please continue to do your part.
Sincerely, Capt Ted Harrop
Chief, Office of Boat Forces.
PS: To those who oversee or manage others who operate boats, I also thank you for your help and request you pass this along to those who do operate boats for you.
Captain Harrop is reporting good progress. I'd encourage all of our Coxswains and Crew to remain vigilant and watch out for each other. As a reminder here are a few strategies to manage the risk of ejection:
- Communicate, communicate, communicate - Call and get a response to wakes, maneuvering, changes in speed, going out of the cockpit or going forward, etc.
- Slow down: Operate at prudent speed for the conditions, situation and the capabilities of the vessel
- Remind your crew to hold on and if possible sit down - seated is almost always better when at higher speeds
- Keep crew off the bow except when operating at low speeds and only then when operationally required
- Assure PPE is properly donned at all times including all buckles and zippers
- When you find yourself loosing your balance or see a shipmate doing so bring it to everyones attention - this is an indicator that action needs to be taken
No comments:
Post a Comment