Mariners Urged to Ensure That Preparations are in Place for Hurricane

The Maritime Authority of Jamaica (MAJ) is urging all mariners to ensure that all the necessary preparations are in place as Hurricane Melissa approaches the island’s coastal waters.

All vessel operators are strongly advised to avoid venturing out to sea under any circumstances and to ensure that their vessels and equipment are properly secured to prevent damage and loss.

The MAJ advises that by this time, all small fishing vessels and canoes should have been removed from the water, beached, and securely tied to immovable objects, such as trees, to prevent them from being blown out to sea.

In an interview with JIS News, Director of Safety, Environment and Certification at the MAJ, Captain Steven Spence, said that larger vessels can be safely anchored within mangrove areas, which serve as natural shelters during storms.

Captain Spence added that these precautions are not only about protecting property but also about safeguarding the marine environment.

“The mandate of the Maritime Authority of Jamaica is to ensure that our vessels are safe and that the marine environment is protected,” he said.

“Vessels that are damaged or grounded during a storm may cause oil spills, and we want to prevent that pollution of our waters. Securing vessels properly helps prevent environmental harm and ensures they are ready for service once the storm passes,” Captain Spence informed.

Regarding large vessels, the Safety Director said that in most cases the safest place for them to be during a storm is out at sea.

He reminded all mariners to be fully prepared, while underscoring that life is more important than property.

“We at the MAJ ensure all seafarers and mariners are protected. If they must remain onboard during the storm, they must be comfortable and have enough food and water to sustain themselves, as they may be out there for days,” Captain Spence said.

His advice to persons on board ships is to ensure that all movable objects are secured and that essential supplies are on board.

Captain Spence emphasised that vessel owners and mariners should ONLY return vessels to operation when the storm has passed and the authorities have removed the extreme weather warning.