The Problem - Boaters recognize that our lives have changed since the events of September 11th. The United States has some 95,000 miles of coastline, 290,000 square miles of water, and its related marine infrastructure to safeguard. It's apparent that the Coast Guard and local law enforcement agencies can't cover all this territory by themselves.
The Solution – There are more than 70 million recreational boaters in the United States. Boaters and those that work on the water know their region better than most. Raising your awareness of unusual activities and reporting suspicious incidents in your area greatly expands the capability of the Coast Guard to preempt potential terrorist acts.
The Details – Boaters observing a suspicious activity are asked to note the details and then call the National Response Center (NRC) toll free at (800) 424-8802. If the incident observed represents an immediate danger to life or property, call 911 first. Boaters should never approach or challenge someone acting suspicious. Call the NRC and let them do that!
What's Suspicious Activity? – Most of us know when it seems there is something out of place at the marina or dock. Here are a few warning signs that you might consider:
- People engaged in surveillance activities of critical facilities
- People that just don't seem to fit into what's normally seen at a location
- Unattended boats and vehicles parked in unusual locations
- Unusual diving activities
- People throwing or recovering items from the water
- Boats anchored in unusual locations
- People showing unusual interest in security measures and access to critical facilities
- Transfers of people or cargo between vessels on the water
What Are Critical Locations? – Most critical infrastructure is easy to identify. We know the importance of a local bridge or lock to the safe flow of transportation. Fueling facilities are vital to keeping the wheels of commerce in motion. Watch for suspicious activities in these locations:
- Tunnels, bridges, locks and overpasses
- Marine service areas like fuel transfer facilities, port docks, marinas, and cruise ship terminals
- Industrial facilities like power plants, bulk fuel terminals, and chemical plants
- Government facilities, security zones, and military vessels
Increased awareness by boaters of their surrounding environment will greatly enhance the security and safety of our waterfront. It is likely that your chances of being boarded by the Coast Guard have increased. Boaters should consider practicing good boating safety techniques and have a Vessel Safety Check performed on their craft. A Coast Guard response to a search and rescue incident diverts its limited resources away from protecting vital facilities. For more information on this program visit the America's Waterway Watch website.
