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Security Zone Around Military Vessels

A 500 yard security zone around military vessels is in effect.  All other vessels are prohibited from entering the inner 100 yard zone and there is another 400 yard zone where traffic may only go as fast as to make steerage.  (A total of 500 yards or about 1/4 nautical mile.)  Boaters who fail to abide by these limitations may be charged with a felony.  See Military Vessel Warning Notice

 

SECURITY ZONE WARNING FROM THE STATE OF RHODE ISLAND

 ATTENTION BOATERS:  AFTER THE TERRIBLE EVENTS OF SEPTEMBER 11, 2001 FEDERAL, STATE AND LOCAL GOVERNMENTAL BODIES HAVE DETERMINED THAT THERE IS A REAL THREAT TO SOME OF OUR NATION’S WATERFRONT FACILITIES SUCH AS NUCLEAR POWER PLANTS, DAMS, LOCKS, MILITARY FACILITIES AND OTHER CRITICAL PORT FACILITIES. IN MANY INSTANCES SAFETY ZONES OR EXCLUSIONARY ZONES HAVE BEEN ESTABLISHED AND ARE BEING PATROLLED BY FEDERAL AND LOCAL LAW ENFORCEMENT AND IN SOME CASES MILITARY UNITS. THESE AREAS ARE VITAL TO NATIONAL SECURITY AND TO THE SAFETY OF ALL.

IN SOME CASES MOVING SAFETY ZONES ARE ESTABLISHED AROUND HIGH RISK SHIPS AS THEY TRANSIT THROUGH A HARBOR AREA TO THEIR BERTH OR UNLOADING TERMINAL.

AS A RESPONSIBLE BOATER, IT IS YOUR DUTY TO MAKE SURE THAT YOU PAY ATTENTION TO THE ORDERS OF THESE PATROLS AND HEED THE DIRECTIONS OF LAW ENFORCEMENT/SECURITY PERSONNEL. FAILURE TO OBEY ORDERS CAN SUBJECT VIOLATORS TO SEVERE PENALTIES.
  

ANTI-TERRORIST SAFETY MESSAGE AND ENCOURAGEMENT
 BY JOHN MALA TAK, OFFICE OF BOATING SAFETY

Captain Scott Evans, Chief of the U.S. Coast Guard's Boating Safety Office is quoted as stating, "Tyranny is defeated by faith, resolve and the absolute determination not to let anyone or any group deprive one of their given rights to pursue life in a respectful and legitimate manner." As President Bush has stressed, " . . we, the American people, must and will pursue our career and life's endeavors with vigor and enthusiasm.'.

The peak of the 2001 recreational boating season is behind us.

Yet, there will continue to be significant numbers of boaters using our waterways: particularly in the warmer climates. So, it is important that they know the waterways are safe, they can help keep them that way and, yes, there will be some tighter security measures.

Recreational boating is safe - just as our highways, airways and railways are- and Americans are determined to keep it that way. Yes, these are times when we must be more cautious and continually aware of our surroundings. But more importunately, we must not allow terrorists with their tyranny of hate to deprive us of the value that our Country, its people and all its resources offer: not just for ourselves but also for others from across the globe. So, use your boats. enjoy your boats and get out on the water. It is a part of our heritage and most of all. it is a legacy that ensures a quality of life for your children's children.

By being on the waterways you too become protectors and defenders. You see,  you hear and you can report. That makes it extremely difficult for terrorists with their malicious agenda to be successful. When you are out on the water take the precautions suggested below as well as noting anything that looks peculiar or out of the ordinary and report it to your local law enforcement or Coast Guard, but in no way approach or challenge suspicious activities or individuals.

SAFETY PRECAUTIONS FOR BOATERS

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Always secure and lock your boat when not on board. This includes visit to marinas, marina restaurants or a friend's dock and other piers; never leave your boat accessible to others.
 

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Always take your keys with you.
 

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When storing your boat make sure it is secure and its engine is disabled. If it is on a trailer, then make the trailer as immovable as possible.
 

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Do not stop or anchor beneath bridges or in channels.   If you do. then expect to be approached and possibly boarded by law enforcement officials.
 

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Observe and avoid all secure areas.
 

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Do not venture into commercial port operation areas, especially those that involve military, cruise line, fuel, petroleum, hazardous materials and other inventories that may be subject to terrorist attacks.
 

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DO NOT approach military, cruise line or commercial shipping. Keep your distance. There is a 100-yard security zone around military, cruise line and many commercial vessels.
 

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Report all activities that seem suspicious either to the local authorities" the Coast Guard, the port and/or marina security or to all. Do not approach or challenge those acting in a suspicious manner.

As World history has shown, resolve and the absolute determination not to let anyone deprive one of their given rights, dignity and pursuits of life has defeated tyranny at every turn and Rill defeat the September 11th terrorist. Their tyranny has met full faced a Rill that far exceeds any thing they could conceive: the American people. I want to remind boaters of the value of boating safety as well. I ask that all boaters follow the three (3) B's of boating safety:

BE SMART… BE SAFE… BE SOBER…

Our B's of boating safety light the paths that lead to safety and fun on the Rater. In short, boaters need to know and practice safe navigation, Rear a lifejacket, be courteous and careful at all times and must not operate a boat while under the influence of alcohol or drugs. WHY? Because when boating safety is known and practiced, it prevents accidents and saves lives. Saving lives is one of America's greatest protectors and benefactors, since every boater is a valued resource for their families, businesses and their country.

We encourage those of you who reside or have access to climates where the weather continues to support boating, do so and enjoy it to the fullest. We look forward to seeing you on the water during the next safe boating season in 2002.