Dear Editor,
The Jamaica Defence Force (JDF) Coast Guard remains committed to its primary role of search and rescue in Jamaica and urges all users of the maritime space to practise basic safety precautions at all times, and especially in this, the hurricane season.
As the designated coordination centre for maritime search and rescue in Jamaica, the JDF Coast Guard coordinates and responds, as required, to all mariners in distress at sea.
International conventions and the local shipping act, with its attendant regulations, prescribe basic safety precautions and requirements for mariners. When these safety precautions are not adhered to however, mariners make it increasingly difficult for rescue coordination centres to execute their duties, and thereby put their lives at risk.
These basic safety precautions include proper preparation for a sea journey by adhering to meteorological and small craft warnings issued by the national authorities, the use of proper navigation equipment, as well as the carriage of personal safety devices such as life vests and other floatation devices. They also include distress signalling devices such as flares and mirrors, as well as radios or fully charged cellular phones.
Notwithstanding the mandated responsibility for adequate preparation for sea journeys, the JDF Coast Guard is committed to saving lives at sea, and will always respond appropriately to distress calls that we receive.
Commander David Chin-Fong
Commanding Officer, JDF Coast Guard
HMJS Cagway, Port Royal
JDF Coast Guard urges safety at sea
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The Jamaica Defence Force (JDF) Coast Guard remains committed to its primary role of search and rescue in Jamaica and urges all users of the maritime space to practise basic safety precautions at all times, and especially in this, the hurricane season.
As the designated coordination centre for maritime search and rescue in Jamaica, the JDF Coast Guard coordinates and responds, as required, to all mariners in distress at sea.
International conventions and the local shipping act, with its attendant regulations, prescribe basic safety precautions and requirements for mariners. When these safety precautions are not adhered to however, mariners make it increasingly difficult for rescue coordination centres to execute their duties, and thereby put their lives at risk.
These basic safety precautions include proper preparation for a sea journey by adhering to meteorological and small craft warnings issued by the national authorities, the use of proper navigation equipment, as well as the carriage of personal safety devices such as life vests and other floatation devices. They also include distress signalling devices such as flares and mirrors, as well as radios or fully charged cellular phones.
Notwithstanding the mandated responsibility for adequate preparation for sea journeys, the JDF Coast Guard is committed to saving lives at sea, and will always respond appropriately to distress calls that we receive.
Commander David Chin-Fong
Commanding Officer, JDF Coast Guard
HMJS Cagway, Port Royal
JDF Coast Guard urges safety at sea
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