The Department of Fisheries is urging fisherfolk to take extra precaution during the hurricane season when venturing out to sea.

While safety gear is a requirement, Hardin Jn. Pierre, the Fisheries Extension Officer for Laborie, Vieux Fort and Savannes Bay, said adhering to specific safety guidelines is vital during the hurricane season.

“We always recommend that vessels carry the necessary safety gear and equipment but it is even more important during the hurricane season,” he explained. “Vessels must ensure they have oars and a sail so they can be mobile in the event of engine problems, life jackets, day and night flares, a GPS and a mobile phone.

“It is also a requirement to carry at least five gallons of drinking water per crew member. Most vessels go to sea with at least three people, so that would mean a total of 15 gallons. Having water is very important in case a crew gets stranded. We also recommend that vessels carry non-perishable food items with a long shelf life.”

The licensing of vessels helps to ensure that fishers have all the necessary safety gear.

“Currently we are under the licensing period which began in April 2018 and ends in April next year,” Mr. Jn. Pierre said. “A one year license is issued, and during this process we make sure that fishers adhere to all the necessary procedures.

“For example, we recommend a sea anchor which can be used to slow drift, and it is a requirement that vessels are painted with four colors for their own safety: red, orange, pink, and yellow, so that in the event of a search and rescue, the craft can be visible.”

Fisheries officers say pre-voyage checks are essential, as they ensures that fishers have everything they need before setting sail. The checks should be carried out by more than one person to ensure that all essentials are on board, and should include food stores, extra water and fuel, navigational and communications equipment and safety gear. The lighthouse should also be informed of fishers’ time of departure and estimated time of return.