Part of the problem with HM Coastguard figures is that on an incident such as fouled prop, we can log it as a "Vessel - Fouled prop" in the incident log, but the incident is not Search and Rescue (SAR) unless the vessel is in danger and the RNLI are not obliged to launch unless the vessel is in danger... all we in the Rescue Coordination Centres can do is ask them if they will launch to a tow job, some lifeboats will and others will definitely not. Beyond that we can request nearby vessels to assist and this is almost invariably the quickest and safest solution if the casualty is not in immediate danger.
Please remember HM Coastguard are SAR specialists and not policemen. We will do all we can to help anyone who is in trouble, but it is nigh on impossible for HM Coastguard alone to force legislation which is why we ar part of the MCA. If a mariner reports that their Prop is fouled by fishing gear it will be recorded and with our new Information Management System these incidents will be flagged up if they are reported at the time, then maybe statistics will speak for themselves and perhaps the MCA may be able to act. Unfortunately near misses arent recorded.
There is legislation for marking of pots in the UK, the pot must be marked with a floating buoy showing the Fishing Vessels name and FV number. the business is an intensely competitive one and fisherman will not want flags because of the real danger of divers and other fishermen lifting their pots... it is a very lucrative business - I have known fishermen not give their position even in a distress, for fear of giving it away to the competition! Long line fishermen are required to buoy and flag the ends of the longline... why the difference noone can tell me.
Speaking for myself, I have encountered these problems and been fouled myself... in time honoured British maritime spirit I went over the side and cut the prop free then helped myself to a lobster on the way.
Previous
Index
Next
Flat
Re: Confidential reporting
Edit
Reply
Quote
