VICTORIA, BC, May 17, 2024
/CNW/ - The Canadian Coast Guard's seasonally-operated Inshore
Rescue Boat stations in British
Columbia will re-open this year on May 18, 2024. The following four stations will be
operational this year:
- Coast Guard 509 Cortes Bay, Cortes
Island
- Coast Guard 508 Sointula, Malcolm
Island
- Coast Guard 507 Nootka Sound
- Coast Guard 504 Kelsey Bay
These Canadian Coast Guard stations are strategically located in
areas of coastal British Columbia
that see significant amounts of spring and summer marine traffic.
The stations are open annually from May to September and crews
respond to incidents that include vessels that are disabled, run
aground, lost in the fog, or taking on water, as well as medical
emergencies and other situations.
A three person crew, comprising of a Canadian Coast Guard
Coxswain and two post-secondary students or naval reservists,
operate a rigid-hull, inflatable fast rescue craft out of each
station. Before the Inshore Rescue Boat stations open, crews are
trained in seamanship, boat handling, navigation, and search and
rescue operations.
Since 1972, the Inshore Rescue Boat Program has been providing
search and rescue coverage in important areas along Canada's coasts, while developing the next
generation of leaders. A number of students who work in the Inshore
Rescue Boat Program have gone on to work with the Canadian Coast
Guard at all levels within the organization.
As always, on-the-water emergencies can be reported 24 hours a
day, 365 days a year, toll-free (within Canada) to 1-800-567-5111, or via marine VHF
radio - channel 16.
Associated Links
- Search and Rescue (ccg-gcc.gc.ca)
- Inshore Rescue Boat Program
Stay Connected
- Follow the Canadian Coast Guard on X, Facebook, Instagram and
YouTube.
SOURCE Fisheries and Oceans Canada, Pacific Region