Coast Guard Petty Officer 1st Class Christopher Hartman, from Maritime Safety and Security Team San Francisco, and his dog, Evy,
conduct training at Coast Guard Island in Alameda, Calif., Wednesday, July 24, 2013. Almost 20 bomb-sniffing dogs from various
agencies around the Bay Area participated in the training aimed at measuring the dogs' ability to detect bomb-making materials.
U.S. Coast Guard photo by Petty Officer 2nd Class Barry Bena

Petty Officer 1st Class Christopher Hartman, from the Maritime Safety and Security Team San Francisco, assists a TSA agent and his K-9 partner during a exercise on Coast Guard Island in Alameda, Calif., with the MH-65 Dolphin Helicopter, July 24, 2013. The MSST works with various law enforcement agencies in order to better train the K-9 units. U.S. Coast Guard photo by Seaman Erika Lindquist

A team member from the University of California's K-9 unit searches through suitcases during a law enforcenment exercise on Coast Guard Island in Alameda, Calif., Wednesday, July 24, 2013. The Marine Safety and Security Team San Francisco works with various law enforcment agencies in order to better train the K-9 units.
U.S. Coast Guard photo by Seaman Erika Lindquis

File photo courtesy of National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration

ALAMEDA, Calif. – In the wake of numerous deaths and injuries, the Coast Guard reminds recreational divers to play it safe when diving along the California coast. 

In the past year, there were at least seven reported cases of recreational diving deaths off the Northern California coast primarily during abalone season, and more than 25 recreational SCUBA diving deaths and injuries all along the coast from Monterey to San Diego.

“The Coast Guard doesn’t regulate recreational diving but is generally called in to assist during diving emergencies,” said Rear Admiral Karl Schultz, commander of the 11th Coast Guard District. “In many of these dive emergencies, injuries and death are preventable.  We want everyone who enjoys the water, including divers whose sport leaves little room for error, to make safety their top priority.  We want you to survive your dive.”

All the normal hazards of water sports and recreation are more dangerous for those spending time below the surface.  Strong ocean and rip currents can occur at any time of year.  Frigid water temperatures, limited air supply, reliance on equipment for survival, and the lack of underwater rescue capabilities all make it essential that divers are fully aware of their own limits and prepared for all possible problems.  

Diving safety experts report that many accidents stem from people underestimating the hazards associated with diving, and overestimating their own physical fitness and skill levels.  They stress the importance of the buddy system, planning, fitness and medical issues, and awareness of weather and sea conditions. 

FIVE TOP DIVE SAFETY TIPS

1. Have a medical assessment by a doctor before diving.

2. Always dive with a buddy, and leave details of your dive trip with someone ashore who will report you overdue if you run into trouble.

3. Plan your dive, follow your plan, and provide your emergency plan to someone on shore.

4. Choose dives that match your training, experience and fitness level.

5. Practice emergency procedures, like dropping your weight belt and inflating your buoyancy compensator, in a controlled environment.

Divers should not let schedules, peer pressure or costs push them beyond their capabilities. People who have invested time and money to plan a dive trip, or sport fishers anxious to harvest fish during a set season, may be tempted to dive in unsafe conditions or overexert themselves.  It’s a good idea to have an alternate activity planned in case a dive trip has to be cancelled for weather, equipment, or health problems.

"Nobody understands the allure of the sea more than the U.S. Coast Guard, but we also see the tragic results when people underestimate the hazards," said Schultz.  "The adventure and thrill of diving are especially appealing to many -- but the ocean is an unforgiving environment, and even less forgiving to those who recreate beneath the surface.” 

For more information on diving safety :

https://www.diversalertnetwork.org/

http://www.sandiego.gov/lifeguards/safety/scuba.shtml

**(Original release July 25, additional distribution July 31.)

Rear Admiral Karl Schultz, commander of the 11th Coast Guard District, presented the Gold Lifesaving Medal (posthumously) to the surviving family members of Kyle Hardman in a ceremony in Ukiah, Calif., July 31, 2013. 
Members of the local Ukiah government were also present for the ceremony. Coast Guard photo

ALAMEDA, Calif. – Rear Adm. Karl Schultz, commander of the 11th Coast Guard District, presented the Gold Lifesaving Medal (posthumously) to the surviving family members of Kyle Hardman in a ceremony in Ukiah, Calif., July 31, 2013.

According to the award citation, Kyle Hardman and Jarvise Shelton were working aboard the towboat Richard A. Baker on the Upper Mississippi River in the vicinity of St. Louis, MO., June 12, 2012, when they heard cries for help.

They spotted a disabled pleasure craft with three adults and two young children aboard, drifting toward their location and in danger of being dragged beneath a fleet of river barges.  Recognizing the danger, the pair launched the tug’s Zodiac work boat.  In the few minutes it took to launch the work boat, the disabled pleasure craft came to rest against the upstream end of a fleet of empty barges, where the family struggled desperately to maintain their balance and prevent their craft from being forced beneath the anchored barges.

As Shelton guided the work boat to within 20 feet of the disabled vessel, Hardman made multiple attempts to throw a rescue line to the terrified family, who were unable to secure the line to their own vessel. As their desperation mounted, one of the passengers held an infant child out to Hardman, but he was just out of reach.  Shelton maneuvered their vessel, working to close the gap between the two boats. But as the work boat advanced, the river currents pushed the work boat’s bow into an adjacent barge, causing it to capsize and ejecting both rescuers.

Shelton managed to pull himself onto the bottom of the capsized Zodiac. Once he reemerged, he spotted Hardman's body several hundred feet downstream. Using the handheld radio that remained attached to his body, Shelton called for assistance, directing the towboat Miss Shelia to Hardman's location. Minutes later, the Miss Shelia returned to rescue Shelton. Once safely aboard, Shelton performed cardiopulmonary resuscitation on his fallen shipmate for several minutes, struggling to revive him. He was unsuccessful.

By this time, Miss Shelia’s crew had positioned the vessel alongside the barge fleet in an effort to render additional assistance. Realizing that he might still save the imperiled family, Shelton turned his attention back to the passengers on the pleasure craft.  Shelton joined other rescuers on the barges in a final attempt to rescue the family. Just as Shelton and the other rescuers lowered a rescue line from the head of the barge, the pleasure craft disappeared beneath the barge. Shelton and the other rescuers managed to pull one man to safety while the crew of the nearby towboat Jackie Sue moved into position to recover the remaining passengers with ring buoys attached to rescue lines.

As a result of their bravery and self-sacrifice, the Coast Guard bestowed Hardman and Shelton with the Gold Lifesaving Medal, a unique award that can be given to both civilians and members of the military. Since 1874, the U.S. Coast Guard has issued the medal less than 700 times, making it one of the rarest medals, awarded and the third oldest medal still being issued by the U.S. military.

The lifesaving medals were first authorized by the 43rd Congress on June 20, 1874. The secretary of the treasury was directed to create "medals of honor", to be distinguished as “life-saving medals of the first and second class, and bestow them upon any persons who endanger their own lives in saving, or endeavoring to save lives from perils of the sea.”

The lifesaving medal is issued in two grades, silver and gold.  Through the years the lifesaving medals have undergone three design changes however, the lifesaving medals remain unique among U.S. decorations.  They are actually struck from the precious metals, silver or gold.

Shelton was presented with the award on May 24, 2013, at the Great Rivers Museum in Alton, IL.

Click for high-res images

A 25-foot Response Boat from the Maritime Safety and Security Team San Francisco patrols along the safety zone near the Golden Gate Bridge in the San Francisco Bay during the 2013 America's Cup race Wednesday, July 7, 2013. Part of the Coast Guard's role in the race is to maintain the traffic flow of commercial vessels entering the Bay.
(U.S. Coast Guard photo by Seaman Erika Lindquist)

A boat from the San Francisco Police Department and a 25-foot Response Boat from the Maritime Safety and Security Team San Francisco patrol the safety zone in the San Francisco Bay, Wednesday, August 7, 2013. The Coast Guard works with various agencies in order to ensure the safety of the race. (U.S. Coast Guard Photo by Seaman Erika Lindquist)

A 25-foot Response Boat from the Maritime Safety and Security Team San Francisco patrols along the safety zone in the San Francisco Bay during the 2013 America's Cup race Wednesday, August 7, 2013. The Coast Guard's role during the race is to ensure that spectators stay outside of the safety zone. (U.S. Coast Guard photo by Seaman Erika Lindquist)

SAN FRANCISCO —  The Maritime Safety and Security Team San Francisco enforces the safety zones during the 2013 America's Cup in the San Francisco Bay Wednesday, August 7, 2013.

"The safety zone is in effect starting at approximately 11 a.m., but it can vary depending on scheduling and wind speeds," said Chief Petty Officer Michael Lutz, the public affairs officer for America's Cup.

The Coast Guard is working alongside various local agencies, including the San Francisco Police Department, the Army Corps of Engineers and the San Francisco Fire Department to ensure the safety of spectators of the event by patroling the marked zones for the race. Safety zones are also established and enforced to ensure the continued flow of maritime commerce by keeping the deep draft vessel lanes operational.

"Working with the Coast Guard has been great; we assist with enforcing the safety zone and if necessary, with law enforcement," said Officer Mark Monpas with the San Francisco Police Department.

There are approximately three teams in the race. On-water spectators can watch the race from the designated spectator areas in the vicinity of Alcatraz Island and the piers in the northeast areas of the city.

##

A ceremonial cake is displayed during an event at Cliff House in San Francisco, Aug. 15, 2013. The event was held to show the local community's appreciation to the Coast Guard for all their hard work. U.S Coast Guard photo by Petty Officer 3rd Class Loumania Stewart

Dan Hountalas, owner of Cliff House restaurant, speaks to Coast Guard members during an event at Cliff House in San Francisco, Aug. 16, 2013. The event was held to show appreciation for Coast Guard members and their hard work. U.S. Coast Guard photo by Petty Officer 3rd Class Loumania Stewart

Coast Guard members gathered with local community members to show appreciation for the Coast Guard Friday, August 16, 2013 at the Cliff House restaurant in San Francisco.

Thirty-six years ago, Dan Hountalas, the owner of the Cliff House, witnessed a mishap with a sail boat located near the South Bar and called it in. The Coast Guard went out to rescue the family, and the survivors personally thanked Hountalas.

“I was upset when the family thanked me because they didn't thank the Coast Guard," said Hountalas.

That's when he decided to throw an appreciation party for the Coast Guard and every year since then he had continued the tradition.

“It raises morale for Coast Guard members,“ Hontalas said. “Everyone does a great job and should be recognized for their hard work.”

Rear Adm. Charles Ray, deputy commander for Pacific Area, said the event is a great opportunity for Coast Guard members to meet with local community members and to recognize the appreciation the community has for them.

“This is part of what the Coast Guard does," said Ray. “We get to know the community and associate with them, which makes the partnerships work.”

Frank Dean, the superintendent for the National Park Services, said it’s a wonderful opportunity to be in a room full of Coast Guardsman.

“It’s great to get to know one another because we work closely together,” said Dean. “We know the quality of work the Coast Guard does; they shine. We know the hard work you do.“ 

Lt. Cmdr. Matthew Botnen enjoyed the fact he was able to associate with junior members and other Coast Guardsmen.

“We are all here together for the same fight even though we may have different backgrounds and our jobs are different,” Botnen said.

The Coast Guard members appreciated the event held on their behalf including Senior Chief Jeffrey Bonafilia.

“It’s a nice change for all of us to get together to represent the Coast Guard,” Bonafilia said. “It’s rare for all these members to get together and recognize the appreciation that is shown.”

Petty Officer 2nd Class Ryan Stemmerman agreed with Bonafilia saying, “It’s not often the Coast Guard gets recognized on a larger scale like this and it’s appreciated.”

As proclaimed by Edwin L. Lee, mayor of the city and county of San Francisco, "The U.S. Coast Guard possesses the highest standards of professionalism and personal integrity in all that they do adhering to the core values of honor, respect and devotion to duty." 

Contact: 619-252-1304

SAN DIEGO — U.S. Coast Guard and U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) crews work together to disrupt two marijuana smuggling attempts off the coast of California, Tuesday morning.

The first event began at 12:23 a.m., when the crew of Coast Guard Cutter Edisto encountered a panga boat approximately 47 miles southwest of San Clemente Island. When the suspected smugglers detected the Edisto, they fled south at a high speed and jettisoned packages overboard.

A CBP Multi-Role Enforcement Aircraft (MEA) was diverted to track the panga. The smugglers were able to evade law enforcement authorities and the pursuit was disengaged. The Edisto's crew recovered 122 bales of marijuana, weighing an estimated 2,900 pounds, from the water.

The marijuana was transported to San Diego and turned over to the Maritime Task Force.

The second event began at 12:29 a.m., when a crew from Coast Guard Station San Diego aboard a 45-foot Response Boat detected a 25-foot recreational boat travelling north approximately 10 miles west of Point Loma.

The Coast Guard crew stopped the boat and observed bales on the deck. The two men aboard the jet boat were detained and the boat was towed into San Diego Bay. A total of 19 suitcases containing marijuana, weighing approximately 1,200 pounds, were found aboard the boat.

The two suspected smugglers, the jet boat, and marijuana were turned over to the Maritime Task Force. The Coast Guard and Customs and Border Protection are member agencies of the Regional Coordinating Mechanism (ReCoM). The ReCoM is comprised of the U.S. Coast Guard, CBP's Office of Air and Marine, Office of Field Operations, U.S. Border Patrol, Immigration and Customs Enforcement Homeland Security Investigations and state and local law enforcement partners operating in the Southern California. The ReCoM utilizes the fusion of intelligence, planning and operations to target the threat of transnational crime along the coastal border.

ALAMEDA, Calif., -- As summer comes to a close, the U.S. Coast Guard urges boaters to make safety a priority on the water as they celebrate this Labor Day weekend.

"Labor Day weekend is a great time for family and friends to celebrate the last days of summer," said Rear Adm. Karl Shultz, commander of the 11th Coast Guard District. "If you are boating, swimming or taking a trip to the beach, please be safe, keep an eye on the kids, and make sure your summer ends on a happy note. If your plans include boating, take along all the proper safety gear which includes a properly fitted lifejacket for each person aboard, carry a VHF-FM marine radio, and never operate any type of water craft if your faculties are impaired by the effects of alcohol." 

Additionally, the Coast Guard reminds mariners of the different safety zones in effect in the San Francisco Bay for Bay Bridge construction until Tuesday morning.  Safety zones are established to protect mariners transiting the area from overhead construction operations. For more information please visit the Local Notice to Mariners website: http://www.navcen.uscg.gov/?pageName=lnmDistrict&region=11.

Please consider these safety tips for boaters before leaving the dock:

• Wear a life jacket. The U.S. Coast Guard estimates that life jackets could have saved the lives of more than 80 percent of boating fatality victims.

• Take a VHF-FM marine radio. Cell phones often lose signal and run out of batteries after a day on the water. They are helpful, but not reliable for emergencies. 

• Register your EPIRB. Response time is the key to survival. The sooner help arrives, the better the chances for survival. Emergency Position Indicating Radio Beacons (EPIRBs) provide the fastest and most accurate way the Coast Guard has of locating and rescuing persons in distress.

• Have a vessel safety check. It’s a great way of learning about problems that might put boaters in violation of state or federal laws, or create danger for boaters and passengers on the water.

• Take a boating safety course. Boaters can learn the basics about their vessels and the "rules of the road" in America's Boating Course, a new electronic boating course produced through a partnership between the U.S. Coast Guard Auxiliary and the United States Power Squadrons. For more information, visit www.americasboatingcourse.com.

• Never boat under the influence (BUI). Intoxicated boaters can face both federal and state charges with penalties of up to one year in prison and up to $100,000 in fines.

• File a float plan. There are too many facts that need to be accurately remembered and conveyed in an emergency situation. Without a float plan, boaters are counting on someone else, a friend, neighbor, or family member to remember detailed information that rescue personnel need in order to find you. Click here for an example of a float plan, and for more information, visit www.floatplancentral.org.

• Check the weather before going out on the water. Be sure to know what to expect and be prepared for weather that may deteriorate unexpectedly. Check the weather report at www.weather.gov.

DALY CITY, Calif., - The Coast Guard conducted an emergency rescue for an injured hiker on the coastal cliffs near Mussel Rock early Sunday morning.

The San Mateo County Fire Department requested the Coast Guard’s assistance to search for the missing hiker. The Coast Guard launched a MH-65 Dolphin helicopter from Air Station San Francisco at approximately 6:15 a.m. to support search efforts alongside the fire department. The helicopter crew located the hiker inside a sea cave after making several search passes in the vicinity of Mussel Rock.

With the tide coming in, the helicopter crew lowered a rescue swimmer into the water. The swimmer noticed the man had serious back injuries, lacerations, and a fractured femur. The rescue swimmer and helicopter crew worked together to safely evacuate the man from the flooding cave, hoisting him into the helicopter. 

The helicopter transported the injured hiker to awaiting paramedics near the rescue site.   

“The Coast Guard trains routinely for cliff and shoreline rescues,” said Cmdr. Harper Phillips, operations officer at Air Station San Francisco. “It is important when hiking to be careful, aware of your surroundings at all times and stay away from steep cliffs, especially near the water.”

SAN FRANCISCO — The Coast Guard is scheduled to hold a media event showing the various missions being performed during the America’s Cup races in San Francisco Bay, Sept. 10.

"The America’s Cup has been a thrilling and complex event to support in the San Francisco Bay," said Capt. Greg Stump, Coast Guard Sector San Francisco Captain of the Port. "The majority of Coast Guard members in the area will continue to perform their missions during the races by ensuring the public’s safety and protecting the waterways. All recreational boaters should remember to always wear their life jackets anytime they are out on the water especially during times of increased vessel traffic.”

WHAT: Media will embark aboard the 87-foot Coast Guard Cutter Hawksbill.  The primary mission of this cutter during the event is to ensure the safety of the race participants and spectators and to ensure that commercial vessel traffic continues to operate.

WHEN:  Tuesday, Sept. 10, 11:00 a.m. Media should arrive by 10:30 a.m. to allow time to clear security. 

WHO:  Capt. Mat Bliven, the Coast Guard America’s Cup principle coordinator, will explain the Coast Guard’s overall role with America’s Cup.

Cdr. Mark Ames, patrol forces commander during the safety zone, will describe the process for vessel access while the races are taking place and explain the importance of the continued flow of commercial traffic.

WHERE:  The CGC Hawksbill will depart from Coast Guard Sector San Francisco on Yerba Buena Island and maintain the zone near Alcatraz. Media should anticipate being underway until 4 p.m.

Media must RSVP to Coast Guard public affairs at 415-399-7317 or by email to Michael.Lutz@uscg.mil.

NOTE:  Media should have press credentials or government issued photo ID, private vehicles should have proof of insurance and registration.

Crewmembers from the Coast Guard Cutter Bertholf, home ported in Alameda, Calif., wait patiently as the ship docks at the pier after a five-month counter-drug deployment to the Eastern Pacific in support of Joint Inter-Agency Task Force South (JIATFS), Thursday September 5, 2013. Photo by Coast Guard Petty Officer 1st Class Thomas McKenzie

Coast Guard Cmdr. Joseph Sundland, Executive Officer of the Coast Guard Cutter Bertholf, is interviewed by local media after returning home from a five-month counter-drug deployment to the Eastern Pacific in support of Joint Inter-Agency Task Force South (JIATFS), Thursday September 5, 2013. Photo by Coast Guard Petty Officer 1st Class Thomas McKenzie

For video, please click this link: http://goo.gl/epy2yQ

Coast Guard members from Air Station San Francisco conduct survival swim training at Coast Guard Station Golden Gate in Sausalito, Calif., Friday, Sept. 6, 2013. The air station holds an annual training for pilots, air crew and rescue swimmers to hone in on their skills, techniques and proper use of equipment. Coast Guard photo by Petty Officer 3rd Class Loumania Stewart

A crew member from Coast Guard Air Station San Francisco particpates in a pyrotechnic demonstration during training at Coast Guard Station San Francisco, Sausilito, Calif., Friday September 6, 2013. Survival training is important to maintain specifc skillsets. U.S. Coast Guard Photo by Seaman Erika Lindquist

Coast Guard members from Air Station San Francisco conduct survival swim training at Coast Guard Station Golden Gate in Sausalito, Calif., Friday, Sept. 6, 2013. The air station holds an annual training for pilots, air crew and rescue swimmers to hone in on their skills, techniques and proper use of equipment. Coast Guard photo by Petty Officer 3rd Class Loumania Stewart

Coast Guard Air Station San Francisco conducted survival training at Coast Guard Station Golden Gate, in Sausalito, Calif., Friday September 6^, 2013.

The training, also known as “wet drills”, is held every year so that pilots, air crew and rescue swimmers can review and hone their survival skills, techniques and the proper use of their equipment to prepare them for worst case scenarios, as well as their day to day job.

The crew members were divided into groups and trained in different scenarios consisting of skills needed for rapid response to emergencies.

The training also included building survival fires on land, a survival swim and pyrotechnics signal training.

“Survival is important for all Coast Guard members, and this training helps to prepare them for the worst case scenario,” said Petty Officer 3rd Class Chris Leon, rescue swimmer assigned to Air Station San Francisco. “The Coast Guard trains on a daily basis to be always ready.”

To learn more about the Coast Guard and its disaster response missions, the 11^th District Coast Guard and partners will host a series of Humanitarian Assistance and Disaster Response events in October.  

SAN FRANCISCO – The Coast Guard is warning beach goers and boaters to exercise extreme caution while operating along the Northern California Coast tonight through Monday evening.

The National Weather Service has issued a rough bar advisory from 11 p.m.this evening until 9 p.m. Monday extending from Point Reyes to Monastery State Beach near Carmel.

It is forecasted that large swells, locally in the 10-15 foot range, will create strong rip currents at most beaches, moderate to large surf at reefs and sand bars, and potential sneaker waves at steeper beaches especially Monastery State Beach.

Sneaker waves can catch beach goers and fishermen by surprise, washing them into the sea. An excessive run up of waves onto beaches as well as strengthening rip currents should be expected in association with this front. People walking along the beach should not turn their back to the ocean. Families and dog owners should protect themselves and their loved ones from surf zones and avoid low-lying areas. Fishermen should avoid fishing from rocks and jetties.

Boaters are also reminded to check the weather before getting underway and ensure that their safety gear is up to date, and in good working condition. Basic safety items include: properly fitting lifejackets for everyone aboard, flares, a marine band radio and an Emergency Position Indicating Radio Beacon.

The Coast Guard encourages all boaters to file float plans with friends or family.  A good float plan includes a description of the vessel, names of the crew, a list of safety equipment on board the vessel, the estimated time of arrival at the fishing grounds and the ultimate destination of the excursion.  The Coast Guard does not monitor float plans. Boaters should leave the float plan with a reliable person who can be depended upon to notify the Coast Guard in case you do not return as scheduled.  Float plan templates are available online and can be found here.

For additional information, visit this link.

ALAMEDA, Calif. -- The 11th Coast Guard District, the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration Office of Law Enforcement (OLE), and the California Department of Fish and Wildlife conducted joint boardings Sept. 26 – Oct. 1, 2013, to coincide with the closure of California’s commercial salmon season.

OLE personnel accompanied Coast Guard teams in conducting the offshore boardings of commercial and charter fishing vessels in the area. California Department of Fish and Wildlife's (CDFW) primary involvement throughout the multi-agency operation took place aboard patrol boats Steelhead and Marlin and through onshore enforcement efforts. A number of CDFW officers assisted from air, ground and sea.

“This is an excellent example of utilizing cooperative working relationships, State and Federal partnerships and common interests to protect California's natural resources,” said CDFW Assistant Chief Bob Farrell.

“This joint operation underscores the importance of sustaining the salmon population for commercial and recreational fishermen as well as future generations,” said Martina Sagapolu, acting Special Agent in Charge of the Southwest Division. “Ensuring the fishing community complies with federal regulations will help maximize the productivity of this critical fishery.”

OLE protects marine wildlife and habitat by enforcing domestic laws and international treaty requirements designed to ensure these global resources are available for future generations. Those special agents and enforcement officers ensure compliance with the nation’s marine resource laws and take enforcement action when these laws are violated.

“The goals of the Coast Guard, NOAA, and the California Dept. of Fish and Game are to protect the lives of boaters, preserve fish stocks for future generations and protect the environment,” said Capt. Greg Stump, commander of Coast Guard Sector San Francisco.  “Joint safety and fisheries enforcement patrols are an effective and efficient way to provide the public and boaters the protection and services they deserve.  I'm proud of our crews, and I appreciate the understanding and cooperation of the many law abiding men and women who make up the bulk of our recreational and commercial fishing fleets.”  

“From an environmental standpoint, we’re seeing a definite recovery of salmon and salmon stock in the California area,” said Coast Guard Lt. Cody Dunagan, a living marine resources officer with the Coast Guard’s 11th District in Alameda, Calif.  “We have to be cognizant of adherence to the regulations in order to avoid depleting stocks again now that commercial salmon is a viable industry and recreational fishing is a viable sport.  We want to make sure that the public is aware of the regulations, and that enforcement efforts are mirroring fishing efforts, so that we don’t deplete the stocks again.  That’s really what we’re trying to do.”

The Coast Guard and local agencies held a multi-agency training day at the Port of West Sacramento, Calif., Wednesday, Oct. 2, 2013. The exercise provided an opportunity for federal, state and county agencies to test capabilities, evaluate interagency operability and improve communications. U.S. Coast Guard photo by Petty Officer 3rd Class Loumania Stewart

The Coast Guard and local agencies held a multi-agency training day at the Port of West Sacramento, Calif., Wednesday, Oct. 2, 2013. The exercise provided an opportunity for federal, state and county agencies to test capabilities, evaluate interagency operability and improve communications. U.S. Coast Guard photo by Petty Officer 3rd Class Loumania Stewart

The Coast Guard and local agencies held a multi-agency training day at the Port of West Sacramento, Calif., Wednesday, Oct. 2, 2013. The exercise provided an opportunity for federal, state and county agencies to test capabilities, evaluate interagency operability and improve communications. U.S. Coast Guard photo by Petty Officer 3rd Class Loumania Stewart

ALAMEDA, Calif. — The Coast Guard and local agencies held a multi-agency training day at the Port of West Sacramento, Calif., Wednesday, Oct. 2, 2013.

The exercise provided an opportunity for officials, observers and partners from 16 participating federal, state and county agencies to test capabilities, evaluate interagency operability and improve communications, said Coast Guard Petty Officer 1^st Class Danny Pitts, the deputy exercise director for the exercise.

The participants also evaluated emergency response procedures, identified areas for improvement, and established collaborations.

“Trainings like these are invaluable,” said Sacramento County Sheriff’s Office Deputy Dave Guthrie, a scene scenario controller for the event.  “Working with our brothers and sisters from different agencies, we learned how each other operates. The Coast Guard is able to have confidence in our tactical skills knowing our use of force policies are in alignment and able to maintain secure communication.”

Agencies identified communication as an area in need of improvement. 

“We had over 100 people participating, and in the Coast Guard we realize that state, county, and local departments don’t have the same tactics and communications as federal,” said Coast Guard Chief Warrant Officer Eric Guerette, the media and observer controller for the exercise. “A training opportunity like this allowed us to recognize the complications and iron them out.”

The Coast Guard has several missions within its area of responsibility and often calls upon local authorities for additional assets and assistance.

“We depend on local agencies immensely,” said Master Chief Petty Officer James Malcolm, commanding officer for Coast Guard Cutter Sockeye. “We have assets that are able to respond and capable of completing our missions, but we are able to foster a great working relationship as well as friendship with the agencies to call on their assistance when needed. This is a fantastic opportunity to ensure we have the best multi-agency law enforcement on our waters and land.”

The Coast Guard is a strong partner and the California Department of Fish and Wildlife enjoys working with them because they are highly motivated and trained, said Robert Ferrell, assistant chief from California Department of Fish and Wildlife.

Immediately following the completion of the exercise, participants convened for a “hotwash,” which is an opportunity for everyone to provide feedback on the exercise and their own performance.

“We learned a lot from this training and were able to look at each other’s strengths and weaknesses,” said Pitts, the deputy exercise director. “It was great to get everyone together and be even more enlightened by what each agency is capable of. This training also allowed everyone to practice on their boats to better hone their skills.”

Participating agencies included: Coast Guard Cutter Sockeye, Coast Guard Station Rio Vista, Coast Guard Auxiliary, Coast Guard Sector San Francisco, Coast Guard Air Station Sacramento, California Department of Fish and Wildlife, Yolo Sacramento Sherriff’s Office, Sacramento Sheriff’s Office and helicopter crew, Solano Sheriff’s Office, San Joaquin Sheriff’s Office, Contra Costa Sheriff’s Office, Sacramento Police Department, Oakland Police Department, West Sacramento Police Department, Suisun Police Department and San Francisco Police Department.

U.S. Coast Guard boarding team member debriefs with members of the Mexican Navy during an exercise off the coast of Ensenada, Mexico, Oct. 8-11, 2013. U.S. Coast Guard photo by Lt. Andrea Psimer

U.S. Coast Guard boarding team members practice detaining a suspect during an exercise off the coast of Ensenada, Mexico, Oct. 8-11, 2013. U.S. Coast Guard photo by Lt. Andrea Psimer

U.S. Coast Guard boarding team members practice boarding a suspect “go fast” vessel during an exercise with the Mexican Navy off the coast of Ensenada, Mexico, Oct. 8-11, 2013. U.S. Coast Guard photo by Petty Officer 2nd Class John Grant

ALAMEDA, Calif. — The U.S. Coast Guard Cutter Rush participated in a North American Maritime Security Initiative (NAMSI) exercise off the coast of Ensenada, Mexico, Oct. 8-11, 2013.

The NAMSI Pacific Exercise is designed to establish a learning environment for players to exercise emergency response plans, policies, and procedures as they pertain to maritime homeland security/maritime homeland defense (MHS/MHD) events.

The NAMSI is a component of a multi-year training and exercise plan that gives participants the opportunity to test their skills in interactive and hands-on, real world tactical procedures.  A primary objective of the exercise was to evaluate the hand-off process of suspected vessels and persons of interest in collaboration with foreign navies.

“NAMSI was an excellent opportunity to exercise and strengthen our partnership with our North American neighbors,” said Capt. Diane Durham, commanding officer of the Rush. “My crew walked away with a better understanding of this vital international agreement, and honed their homeland security skills with the assistance of the Mexican and Canadian maritime forces.”

The Coast Guard is a leading agency of maritime enforcement worldwide. The NAMSI exercise involved the Canadian Navy, Mexican Navy, U.S. Navy, and additional Coast Guard assets including a Maritime Patrol Aircraft (MPA) from Air Station Sacramento and Coast Guard Cutter Narwhal, an 87-foot patrol boat homeported in Newport Beach, Calif.

“In any law enforcement operation, communication plays a vital role in the success of any evolution,” said Coast Guard Petty Officer 1st Class Justin Laragione, one of the Maritime Enforcement Specialists aboard Rush. He did not overlook the opportunity to gain another perspective from the Mexican Navy.  “Everyone involved brings something to the table, no matter how big or small your role is.”

The multi-agency collaboration allowed an opportunity to test and improve capabilities to quickly interdict threats far from U.S. shores.

Exercise participants will attend a facilitated debriefing at SEMAR Second Naval Region Headquarters in Ensenada. During the debriefing, participants will receive feedback regarding performance and potential areas for improvement.

“It was a great opportunity to work with the Mexican Navy to strengthen our partnerships and to hopefully one day work on multilateral agreements to help combat the narcotics trafficking," said Petty Officer 2nd Class Tyson Ligsay, also a Maritime Enforcement Specialist aboard Rush. 

“We look forward to participating in future NAMSI exercises,” said Durham.

Participating agencies included: Coast Guard Cutter Rush, Coast Guard Cutter Narwhal, Coast Guard Air Station Sacramento, Coast Guard District 11, Coast Guard Pacific Area, SEMAR Region 2, ARM Montestario, HMCS Yellowknife, and HMCS Edmonton.

ALAMEDA, Calif. -- The Coast Guard is searching for a diver who went missing in the vicinity of Salt Point State Park in Jenner, Calif., Monday afternoon.

At 4:47 p.m. Monday, the local dispatch in Sonoma County contacted Coast Guard Sector San Francisco watchstanders alerting them of a missing diver near Salt Point State Park, approximately 200 feet from shore.

The Coast Guard launched an MH-65 helicopter aircrew and a 47-foot Motor Lifeboat crew out of San Francisco and Bodega Bay, Calif., respectively, to assist local crews already on scene to help with the search efforts but the helicopter aircrew was unable to see clearly due to the fog and had to return. 

The Coast Guard highly recommends divers heed the following five tips:

1. Have a medical assessment conducted by a doctor before diving.

2. Always dive with a buddy, and leave details of your dive trip with someone ashore who will report you overdue if you run into trouble.

3. Plan your dive, follow your plan, and provide your emergency plan to someone on shore.

4. Choose dives that match your training, experience and fitness level.

5. Practice emergency procedures, like dropping your weight belt and inflating your buoyancy compensator, in a controlled environment.

For more information on diving safety :

https://www.diversalertnetwork.org/

Rear Adm. Charles Ray, Coast Guard Pacific Area deputy commander, speaks to Air Station San Francisco personnel after presenting
three of their own with Coast Guard Achievement Medals during an all-hands held at the air station Friday, Oct. 25, 2013.
The crew was recognized for their September 2013 rescue of a hiker who fell off a cliff near Mussel Rock, Calif.
U.S. Coast Guard photo by Petty Officer 2nd Class Barry Bena

Coast Guard Rear Adm. Charles Ray, Pacific Area deputy commander, sits down with the Air Station San Francisco chief petty
officers during a tour of the air station Friday, Oct. 25, 2013. Chiefs, senior chiefs and master chief petty officers are the senior
most enlisted personnel and are responsible for guiding, training and leading the unit's enlisted workforce.
U.S. Coast Guard photo by Petty Officer 2nd Class Barry Bena

Rear Adm. Charles Ray, Coast Guard Pacific Area deputy commander, is provided a tour by Air Station San Francisco leadership of the
air station's helicopter facilities Friday, Oct. 25, 2013. As the PACAREA deputy commander, Ray has oversight of Coast Guard
operations for the western half of the world. U.S. Coast Guard photo by Petty Officer 2nd Class Barry Bena

The BNS Somudra Joy, formerly the Coast Guard Cutter Jarvis, departs Alameda, Calif., Saturday, Oct. 26, 2013. The BNS Somudra
Joy is the first Coast Guard high endurance cutter transferred to the Bangladesh navy. U.S. Coast Guard photos

ALAMEDA, Calif. -- BNS Somudra Joy, formerly the Coast Guard Cutter Jarvis, departed Saturday from Alameda, marking a major milestone in international cooperation between the United States and Bangladesh.

Joined by a small Coast Guard team of advisors, lead by Cmdr. Wendy Tomko, the Bangladeshi crew will make port calls at San Diego, Honolulu, Guam and Malaysia on their way to Bangladesh.

This concludes a two-year-long process of identifying the cutter for decommissioning, advising foreign allies of its availability, allocating it to a country with the capability of supporting it and whose national defense objectives align with the United States' regional goals. Also required were Letters of Offer and Acceptance, the decommissioning and transfer ceremonies, training a new crew, and establishing the initial support of what is often the largest and most complex combatant vessel the receiving country has seen.

This marks the fourth transfer as the Coast Guard brings its newest asset, the 418-foot national security cutter, into service.

The Philippine navy operates two former Coast Guard high endurance cutters, PF15 Gregorio Del Pilar, formerly the Hamilton, and PF16 Ramon Alcarez, formerly the Dallas. The Nigerian navy, operating the former cutter Chase, now NS Thunder, are returning for the Gallitan in 2014 when it completes its last Coast Guard patrol.

ALAMEDA, Calif. -- Commercial fishing is one of the most dangerous jobs in America, and Dungeness crab fishing is the most deadly of all West Coast commercial fisheries.

California’s commercial Dungeness crab season is scheduled to begin at midnight on November 14 for the central coast (Avila-Morro Bay to the mouth of the Russian River) and December 1 for the northern coast (Russian River to the Oregon border).  U.S. Coast Guard personnel will be available on the docks for dockside exams and safety spot checks in ports from Monterey to Crescent City November 5-7 to help identify and mitigate safety hazards in the crab fleet.

Coast Guard personnel will be walking the docks and informing commercial crab vessels of the required lifesaving equipment for their vessels, as well as pot-loading practices which can affect vessel stability and watertight integrity.  Dockside exams have reduced the number of casualties and helped identify potential problems.  In previous years, statistics show nearly one-third of EPIRB’s (Emergency Position Indicating Radio Beacons) and life rafts carried onboard were incorrectly installed.  This type of situation is easily corrected and can help prevent a disaster at sea.  Those vessels with serious safety discrepancies, such as overloading, lack of watertight integrity, missing primary life saving equipment or non-functioning EPIRBs, can be restricted from operating until the discrepancies are corrected.

All California commercial crab fishermen are strongly encouraged to contact their local Coast Guard commercial fishing vessel safety examiner with any questions or to schedule an exam.  Implemented in 1991, the Coast Guard’s Commercial Fishing Vessel Safety Program is designed to help commercial fishermen identify and eliminate potential safety hazards.  Successful completion of a dockside exam can also make any future Coast Guard at-sea boarding greatly abbreviated.

ALAMEDA, Calif. -- The Coast Guard regulates commercial maritime commerce and ensures compliance with applicable safety, security, and environmental protection requirements.

In this capacity, the Coast Guard conducts hundreds of inspections across the region on a wide variety of commercial vessels.  During the course of these activities, Coast Guard personnel are often exposed to sensitive proprietary information, new technologies, and other trade secrets.  Regardless of the company or entity involved, the Coast Guard has an obligation to protect sensitive proprietary information, as a company's competitive posture and business interests depend on it.

Regarding the barge BAL0010 moored at Treasure Island in San Francisco Bay, Coast Guard personnel have been onboard to conduct routine inspections and ensure compliance with applicable, safety, security, and environmental protection regulations.

The Coast Guard is committed to ensuring the safety and security of our waterways, while also respecting the sensitive commercial interests of those we regulate.