The Port of Vancouver released the footage from a recent near-miss between a boat and the SeaBus.
The Vancouver PD had previously issued an alert looking for a 28-32 foot-long sportfishing vessel on May 13th, but this is the first time we're seeing the footage.
MEDIA RELEASE: Recent near-miss incident in Burrard Inlet underscores need for better safe boating awareness https://t.co/qUBGsYe975 #SafeBoating @VPDMarineUnit @CSBCCANADA @RCM_SAR pic.twitter.com/oDwPK8bFY0
— Port of Vancouver (@PortVancouver) May 16, 2018
People who operate watercraft like the one shown here are required to take safety training before obtaining their pleasure craft operator card.
Along with the video the Port released a statement along with this life of "10 reminders to stay safe on the water". Read them as a refresher for yourself if you operate a boat and send them to people you think might need a refresher:
- Check current conditions – Check weather, tide, currents and water levels before you head out. - Summer temperatures bring additional navigation hazards to the Fraser River as the freshet runoff can increase current flows and waterlevels, debris, compromise clearances
beneath bridges, and changes in elevation to river beds.
- Hug the shoreline – Steering clear of the deep-sea vessel route is key to maintaining safety for all on the water. Stay as close as possible to the shoreline as safe and practical to avoid incidents with commercial ships.
- Boating at night is different – It’s more difficult to see your surroundings at night, so be sure to have the proper lighting and safety equipment on board if boating at night. Take extra precaution and go slower.
- Pay attention to your surroundings – Always be aware of other vessels around you and comply with the restricted areas. If you hear five or more short and rapid blasts of a ship’s whistle, this means you’re in immediate danger and must clear the area. Monitor VHF (Very High Frequency) 16 and 12 on your radio.
- Go slowly – The waters are busier this time of year. Go a little slower, give yourself more time and plan your day accordingly.
- Be prepared to move – Large, deep-sea ships have limited visibility – don’t assume they can see you. They also can’t move quickly, especially in narrow channels. Even if you have the right-of-way, you must yield to them.
- Consult official publications – To avoid collision, look at nautical charts for depth surroundings and our website for bridge and transit procedures.
Never get between a tugboat and its tow – Tow cables are often submerged and not visible.
- Boat respectfully – Keep wake and wash to a minimum to avoid damage to sensitive habitat, property or other vessels. Remember, no wake when passing moored seaplanes.
- Report incidents – If you see anyone violating the safe boating practices, contact the Port Operations Center 24/7 at: 604.665.9086 to report the incident. In an emergency, press *16 on your mobile phone, VHF: 16 on your radio or, as always, you can phone 911.
For more information, visit portvancouver.com/safeboating to review the safe boating guides for the Burrard Inlet and Fraser River.
