Two recent initiatives, spearheaded by B.C. search and rescue crews, have us feeling pretty appreciative that these volunteers are manning our waters and keeping us safe.
Last week, Royal Canadian Marine Search and Rescue (RCM-SAR) told the boating public about a new iPhone app, designed by one of its members in West Vancouver, that will aid boaters and ensure they can be safe this summer.
The new app includes: voyage planning resources, tide, current, wind and weather information, emergency procedures and distress signal information, emergency radio communication procedures including sample recordings, VHF marine radio channel listings for Canada-Pacific, contact information for non-emergency vessel assistance, safety equipment and navigation light requirements, basic maritime collision regulations, hazard to shipping and tsunami debris reporting using the iPhone's GPS, and a conversion calculator for fueling.
The valuable information this one app provides could potentially safe lives and mean that RCM-SAR crews won't be out on a rescue call if someone gets into trouble.
The second initiative announced this week is a new free safety check under a program supported by Transport Canada. The vessel safety survey program is strictly voluntary and will be provided as a courtesy to boaters who request it. Crews will approach vessels and offer to check items such as personal flotation devices, signalling devices, fire extinguishers, bailers, radar reflectors, navigation charts and other items - again, another awesome safety initiative that shows a real dedication to promoting safe and fun activities on the water.
Last year, RCM-SAR volunteers were called out to more than 690 missions across the province. Here on the Sunshine Coast, we have three stations, one in Pender Harbour, one in Halfmoon Bay/Sechelt Inlet and one in Gibsons. These volunteers provide search and rescue coverage up and down the Coast 24/7 and put their lives on the line in the aid of others. Last year alone, Station 12 in Halfmoon Bay responded to more than 20 calls.
Our waters continue to be safe thanks to these dedicated men and women.
Vandals hit a nerve
A recent spate of vandalism has us shaking our heads - again - this week.
A graffiti artist has run amuck in the Gibsons area tagging a vehicle and a building. And the washrooms in Winegarden Park were hit, causing lots of damage - to the Town's dismay.
When these senseless and petty acts happen in our community we ask ourselves why? Why do people treat their community with such disdain? It only hurts others - in time, energy and money cleaning up their mess. Show some respect.
