MEDIA ADVISORY
Boaters in the area should be aware of on-the-water activity
OLYMPIA – Feb. 27, 2019 – Washington State Parks’ Boating Program is hosting marine law enforcement training next week on Commencement Bay in Tacoma.
The training, Boat Operator for Search and Rescue (BOSAR), takes place March 2 - 6, and will focus on search-and-rescue techniques for marine law enforcement officers. The Boating Program partners with the U.S. Coast Guard and the National Association of State Boating Law Administrators to provide this annual training, which takes place in a classroom and on the water.
Training includes:
- Developing vessel operation skills
- Standard operating procedures for rescue operations involving multiple agencies
- Search patterns
- Locating victims using drift-rate data
- Search techniques for diverse types of water bodies
- How to properly load a rescue helicopter
These skills are necessary to conduct rescue missions safely and will enhance on-the-water safety and response capabilities throughout Washington state. More than 20 officers from nine agencies around the state will participate in this training.
During the on-the-water sessions, the public can expect to see up to 10 law enforcement vessels training on Commencement Bay. The training will also include search-and-rescue simulations with a Coast Guard helicopter. State Parks Boating Program requests that recreational boaters in the area avoid these vessels during the training sessions.
About the Washington State Boating Program
Washington State Parks administers the state’s Boating Program, which provides leadership in boating safety and environmental education and outreach. The goal of the program is to reduce accidents and fatalities, increase stewardship of Washington waterways, and keep recreational boating a safe, accessible and enjoyable pastime. For more information on the Boating Program, visit: www.washingtonstateparks.us/Boating
Christina Fremont, (360) 902-8837
Toni Droscher, (360) 902-8604
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About Washington State Parks
The Washington State Parks and Recreation Commission manages more than 100 state parks and properties totaling approximately 120,000 acres. The Commission provides a variety of recreation opportunities for citizens and provides stewardship protection for a diverse array of natural, cultural and historic resources. State Parks’ statewide programs include long-distance trails, boating safety and winter recreation.
News release number: 20-011