Coast Guard Offering Oregon Commercial Fisherman Safety, Emergency Training

The fee for the workshop is $50.

Salem-News.com

(NEWPORT, Ore. ) - Commercial fishermen will have the opportunity to receive hands-on safety equipment and emergency drill training provided by the U. S. Coast Guard in association with Oregon Sea Grant.

The Coast Guard-approved Marine Safety and Survival Course is scheduled for March 8th-9th, in Newport.

The fee for the workshop is $50.

Participants will practice with emergency equipment required aboard most commercial fishing vessels-personal flotation devices, life rafts, immersion suits, distress signals, Emergency Position Indicating Radio Beacons and fire extinguishers.

They will learn and practice emergency procedures like man overboard retrieval, abandoning ship, fire fighting and flooding control through on board emergency drills and practical demonstrations.

"This is required training for documented commercial fishing vessels that operate beyond the boundary line," said Curt Farrell, Coast Guard Fishing Vessel Safety Coordinator for Oregon and Southwest Washington.

Mariners who have already taken the course are encouraged to attend again to refresh their skills.

A study by The National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health (NIOSH) determined that after five years, the effectiveness of training in reducing fatalities declines significantly.

Upon completion of the course, participants will receive certification to conduct emergency drills aboard commercial fishing vessels.

To register or for more information, contact Kathy Buisman with Oregon Sea Grant-OSU Extension Office at (541) 574-6537, Ext 10.