May 6, 2015 — Fishing Partnership Support Services is hosting two safety programs for commercial fishermen in Gloucester.
A safety and survival training program is being held today at the Gloucester Coast Guard Station, 17 Harbor Loop, running through 3:30 p.m.. It will be followed on Friday by drill conductor training at the same location, from 8 a.m. to 4 p.m.
“We are very grateful to the Coast Guard for once again providing their facilities and full support,” said J.J. Bartlett, who serves as president of Fishing Partnership Support Services.
A team of experienced marine safety instructors, all certified by the U.S. Coast Guard, will lead the multi-part programs, both of which are being offered to fishermen at no cost.
Ed Dennehy, a retired Coast Guard captain and director of safety training for Fishing Partnership Support Services, noted that any and every emergency at sea is a potential threat to life and limb.
“Through hands-on training, we demonstrate the best ways to deal with all kinds of emergencies,” he said. “This knowledge can save a fisherman’s life or enable that fisherman to save the life of a fellow crew member.”
Topics to be covered during today’s safety and survival training include on-board firefighting, man-overboard procedures, flooding and pump operations, flares and emergency positioning devices, survival suits, life raft equipment, helicopter hoist and rescue procedures, and first aid.
According to Dennehy, it is not unusual for fishermen to attend safety and survival training annually to keep their skills sharp.
“In fact, we encourage yearly attendance,” he said. “There’s always a new wrinkle to discover in the subject of safety, and frequently reviewing procedures refreshes your skills.”