The US Department of Transportation Maritime Administration posts useful advice on its website on how to deter piracy attacks, based on experiences off the coast of Somalia. The advice includes:
- An awareness that most attacks occur in daylight.
- Vessels moving at less than 16 knots and with a low freeboard (less than 6 metres) are at high risk.
- Establishing a secure and pre-designated area for crew members to muster.
- Establishing a secure alternative steering location.
- Preparing a list of contact numbers and email addresses for assistance.
- Posting more security personnel and establishing roving watches, and 360 degree surveillance.
- Establishing duress codes for staff.
- Staging of anti-piracy equipment, such as fire hoses and spotlights.
- Removal of any equipment hanging over the side that could be used to gain access.
- Practice anti-piracy drills.
- Using established safe corridors.
- Transiting dangerous areas at maximum possible speed.
- Fullest possible utilization of radar.
- A single point of entry into the house.
- Securing deck lighting, except for mandatory navigation lights.
If under attack:
- Muster, man high pressure hoses etc., and provide a visible deterrent.
- Alter course, fire flares, turn on all lights if at night.
- Sound alarm signals.
- Activate SSAS.
- Notify nearest centre.
If pirates open fire:
- Change course repeatedly if unable to outrun pirate vessel.
- Hose team to remain behind cover until it can be used effectively.
- Use hoses to prevent boarding.
- Remainder of crew to secure location.
- If pirates succeed in boarding, cease resistance.
The link to the site, and other resources on Maritime Security, can be accessed by clicking on:
http://www.arc-tc.com/pages/resources_publications.asp#M
ARC Training offers a one-week course in Maritime Security, in accordance with the ISPS Code, during the period 5-9 October 2009. For more information contact Janet or go to
http://www.arc-tc.com/pages/other_accredited_sm.asp#s3
ARC is an approved TRANSEC (UK Government Agency) maritime training provider.
