‘Less boat accidents, no fatality so far’

There were lesser distress boat reports, fewer vessel accidents, and no boat accident-related fatality that has happened so far in the CNMI this year compared to the previous two years, according to the Department of Public Safety yesterday.

The DPS Boating Safety Section’s 2004 to 2006 statistical reports showed that, as of October this year, there were 10 distress boat cases, no boat accident, 10 jet ski accidents, and no boat-accident related fatality.

In 2005 there were 22 boat distress cases, eight boat accidents, nine jet ski accidents, and one boat accident-related fatality.

BSS said that in 2004 there were 15 distress boat cases, nine boat accidents, two jet ski accidents, and one boat accident-related fatality.

These figures were cited in relation to acting Gov. Timothy Villagomez signing a proclamation yesterday declaring Dec. 4 to 8 as CNMI Safe Boating Week.

In his remarks, Villagomez commended all operators and boat owners who have taken steps to ensure that trips are both safe and enjoyable.

“To every captain who consistently stores enough life jackets aboard and who requires passengers to wear them, you are helping prevent a tragedy,” he said.

The acting governor said boaters who avoid alcoholic beverages while at sea are helping ensure clear judgment and vision.

“To every operator who has cooperated with a volunteer vessel safety check program or completed a boating education course, you have gone above and beyond to ensure your skills, your equipment and your safety procedures are up to par,” he pointed out.

Villagomez encouraged all boaters to be “boat smart, boat safe, fish smart and fish safe” to ensure an enjoyable time on the water.

BSS chief Sgt. Juan D. Diaz appealed to members of the boating community to make sure that they have their safety equipment on board before venturing outside the lagoon.

Diaz said boaters should always have safety equipment on board such as fire extinguisher, life jackets, flare, ring buoy, and a VHF radio in good working condition.

In reading the proclamation, Sgt. Bernard K. Santos underscored the need to continue spreading the message of boating safety.

“Knowledge and skills are important in reducing human error and improving judgment. If people are aware of the risks, they are likely to take precautionary measures in protecting themselves, their friends, and their family,” Santos said. (Ferdie de la Torre)