Coast Guard to Conduct Rescue Exercise
The U.S. Coast Guard, Norwegian Cruise Line (NCL) and the U.S. Virgin Islands Government are working together to coordinate a one-day full-scale Caribbean Mass Rescue Operation Exercise in Saint Thomas, U.S. Virgin Islands on Aug. Since 2002, Coast Guard passenger vessel safety specialists from around the United States have been working together with the passenger vessel operators to develop standardized procedures for managing a mass rescue operation. Through meetings and a series of exercises, the participants learn about each others' capabilities, identify best response practices and are establishing standardized procedures to help ensure maximum effectiveness. NCL volunteered to be the lead cruise line in this exercise to assist the Coast Guard in their emergency preparedness efforts.
Fireboat Would Boost Port Security for NH
The Union Leader reported that security at the Port of New Hampshire is expected to be enhanced by the acquisition of a boat, which would be used to fight maritime fires and help in other water-based emergencies. The information was offered yesterday to members of the of the Pease Development Authority's Division of Ports and Harbors Port Use Ad Hoc Committee. Portsmouth Assistant Fire Chief Steve Achilles told the committee, chaired by State Sen. Martha Fuller Clark, the vessel is expected to be ready by the fall of next year. The fire official said he hopes the vessel can be based at the state-run port on Market Street, since the location provides the best possible access to the Piscataqua River.
