KODIAK, Alaska- Coast Guard Petty Officer 2nd Class Kelly Marthaler, from the Marine Safety Detachment (MSD) in Sitka, inspects a dry-suit aboard the fishing vessel Yvonne Denise today. MSD inspectors boarded the Yvonne Denise as a follow-up procedure due to a collision the fishing boat was involved in on August 28. Inspectors found expired fire extinguishers, a forward door on the starboard side of the vessel was tied shut, the life-raft packing had not been inspected since 1978, the liferaft's hydrostatic release was also expired and seven other violations. "Captains are ultimatley responsible for the safe operation of their vessels," said Cmdr. John Sifling, Marine Safety Office Juneau. "If you own or operate a fishing vessel in Southeast Alaska, you may schedule a free dockside exam," said Sifling. "An examiner will visit your vessel, checking for safety and reulatory compliance. No fines or penalties will be assessed during this exam. If you would like to schedule a fishing vessel exam you can contact Larry Snyder at (907) 463-2448. (Official Coast Guard photo courtesy of the MSD in Sitka)
Click here to download full-size image