Fishing vessels go fishing hundreds of miles away from critical and lifesaving services, so in essence, they are their own fire department, hospital and damage control.
A workshop spearheaded by the US Coast Guard for fishermen on board longliners which ended today was aimed at equipping them with the knowledge and skills to respond to and in the event of a significant casualty or loss of a vessel, be able to sustain themselves until help can arrive.
The training was a collaborative effort between federal and local authorities with the support of the industry.
“The Coast Guard has a small footprint here, but through strong linkages and partnerships we can facilitate, safeguard, and advance maritime commerce while ensuring the safety of our local fleet,” said Frank Thomsen, assistant supervisor, U.S. Coast Guard Marine Safety Detachment American Samoa.
Teaming up with the Coast Guard was Port Administration, Public Safetyu, NOAA Fisheries, NOAA Office of Law Enforcement, DMWR Enforcement and Mr. Raymond Medeiros, Captain of the U.S. purse seine, Friesland.
“We are somewhat isolated, but the community in American Samoa is resilient and contributes significantly to the Pacific economy. This workshop enables our fleet’s fishers to continue their work safely and further our positive relationships to see this region succeed,” said Thomsen.
Christine Lutu Sanchez of Tautai O Samoa Longline & Fishing Association said all of the U.S. longliners operating in American Samoa that are members of their Association returned
to port so that the captains, masters and most senior crew could
attend this training. 
“We are grateful for this opportunity for this 3-day session and hope that we can continue such trainings for our fishermen and prospective fishermen,” she said.
“Special thank you to Frank Thomsen, Lt. Blaisdell, Charlie of USCG Honolulu and the local USCG Safety Detachment Office for coordinating this session with local and federal agencies to ensure all topics were explained in detail to the fishermen. Faafetai faafetai Tele Lava!”
