FROM: Donna Cole, SO-MS

SUBJ: May 2008 Marine Safety Report

Date: 12 May 2008

1. Marine Safety Resources Update: The M department website has been updated with many useful links in the area of marine safety., including manuals, references, training guides, etc. Check out the updates at http://auxmdept.org/links.htm. The February edition of Safety Lines has been posted at http://www.auxmdept.org/safetyline_pdfs/022008SafetyLines.pdf.

2. Training: For those preparing to take the Initial Indoctrination to Marine Safety exam, please note that SECNY’s Education Services Officer is transferring out. To schedule an Initial Indoctrination to Marine Safety (IIMS) test at SECNY the phone number for the ESO is 718-354-4079 (alternate 718-345-4056)

3. Current Practice: In his report this month, Mike Rebeck, ADSO-MS SECNY-S included a notice about the new Small Vessel Security Strategy released by DHS in April. It states in part, “Traditional maritime security efforts have primarily focused on large commercial vessels, their cargoes, and crew. Efforts to address the small vessel environment have largely been limited to traditional safety and law enforcement concerns. Small vessels are, however, readily vulnerable to potential exploitation by terrorist, smugglers of weapons of mass destruction, narcotics, aliens, and other contraband, and other criminals. Small vessels have also been successfully employed overseas by terrorists to deliver Waterborne Improvised Explosive Devices.” We know how important it is remain vigilant and this strategy opens new avenues. Operation Small Fry is an example of one proactive program in that area. The report, as well as additional information on small vessel security, is available on the DHS web site, www.dhs.gov/xprevprot/programs/gc_1199394950818.shtm

4. Marine Safety Reporting: Thanks to all who have reported observations of unusual environmental incidents to me. Please note that I will be away on vacation from 14 May to 21 May, so please do not send anything of an urgent nature to me during that time. I will check voice and email periodically, but I cannot guarantee a timely response.

Respectfully Submitted:

SO-MS