SSC Safety Advisor Officer - Al Boyden

This writer was appointed the SSC Safety Advisor Officer. This position was developed by the PICYA as a means of advising club members of "Security Updates" caused by the recently caused terrorist levels which have increased the need for safety and security measures in the US ports and waterways.

As this program is being developed, if you have ideas, comments or questions concerning security update or vessel safety, please contact me. These security updates are posted in the Club House, in Dock Talk, and on our Web Page.

Happy Safe Sailing, Al

safety_officer@stocktonsc.org

The terrorist acts against the United States on September 11, 2001, and the recently heightened terrorist threat level have increased the need for safety and security measures in U.S. ports and waterways.

1) TEMPORARY SECURITY ZONES: In order to prevent further terrorist acts, the Coast Guard is establishing temporary security zones as follows:

· Extending 100 yards in the United States Territorial Waters around all cruise ships and tank ships that enter, are moored in, or depart from the San Francisco Bay and Delta ports, California. Effective until further notice.

· Extending 100 yards in the United States Territorial Waters around all high interest vessels (HIV’s) that enter, are moored in, or depart from the San Francisco Bay and Delta ports, California. HIV's are vessels deemed by the Captain of the Port or higher authority as requiring protection, therefore they will be escorted by a Coast Guard or other law enforcement vessel with an embarked Coast Guard commissioned, warrant, or petty officer. Effective until further notice.

· Extending 25 yards in the U.S. navigable waters surrounding the piers, abutments, fenders and pilings of the Golden Gate Bridge and the San Francisco-Oakland Bay Bridge. Effective until 9/30/03.

Any person who will fully and knowingly enters a Security Zone without permission of the Captain of the Port may be fined or imprisoned for committing a Class D felony. Associated vessels may be seized and held liable for any monetary assessments

2) NAVAL VESSEL PROTECTION ZONE: After 9/11/01, U.S. Coast Guard Pacific Area established Naval Vessel Protection Zones which provide for the regulation of vessel traffic in the vicinity of U.S. naval vessels. THE NAVAL PROTECTION ZONE IS STILL IN EFFECT!

· Do not approach within 100 yards of any U.S. naval vessel.

· You must operate at minimum speed within 500 yards of any U.S. naval vessel.

· Violations are a felony offense, punishable by up to 6 years in prison and/or up to $250,000 in fines.

3) COMMERCIAL TRAFFIC: Be sure you stay well clear of any large vessel whose movement is restricted by its size. Keep at least 500 yards (1/4 mile) from any commercial vessel. This is extremely important in crossing situations.

4) KEEP WELL CLEAR OF CRITICAL INFRASTRUCTURE AND OTHER PLACES OF INTEREST. These include, but are not restricted to entrances to tunnels, airports, power plants, water intakes, oil facilities, chemical facilities, fuel docks, and military bases. If you have any doubts about a particular spot being regarded as sensitive, assume that it is.

5) KEEP A LOOKOUT FOR UNUSUAL ACTIVITY. Be extra vigilant in the vicinity of sensitive areas, listed above. Examples of unusual activity include:

· Fishing/hunting in locations typically not used for fishing or hunting

· Any aggressive activities

· Unusual filming or diving activities, particularly close to a sensitive area

· Vessels anchored or loitering around commercial vessel anchorages when commercial vessels are present

· Boats underway at night with no navigational lights in or around places of interest

6) REPORT UNUSUAL ACTIVITY. If you see any suspicious activity, notify the appropriate authorities.

· Suspicious activity on or near the water, contact the Coast Guard – (415) 399-3451

· Suspected terrorism plots or activities, contact the FBI – (415) 553-7400

· Suspected smuggling operations, contact US Customs – (800) 232-5378

· Suspected illegal immigration, contact Dept of Immigrations – (415) 844-5347

· For all emergencies, call 911

7) FLY YOUR CLUB BURGEE. This will help identify you and may reduce your exposure to being boarded.