Once again what we know of from this report is that the F/V Lady Luck capsized and sank very quickly. It demonstrates how quickly things can go bad on the water. This sinking was shortly after the capsizing and sinking of the F/V Amazing Grace in Nantucket sound which capsized due to loss of stability caused by excessive icing. Four fisherman died in this tragedy and in both cases, lifesaving gear was on board but did not perform as required. The raft on the Lady Luck was attached to the vessel and in the Amazing Grace capsizing the Epirb was lodged in the the scupper from what I remember.
When we go out and fish think about where and how we stow our lifesaving equipment. A raft with a hydrostatic release on a roof of a sportfisherman tower will most likely get hung up if the hydrostatic release goes off. Storing it on the bow may be the better location. Epirbs stored inside a cabin is a bad idea also along with PFD'S stored below anchors and line.
The night before the capsizing Glen Miller had a beer at midnight with his son who turned 21 that day. He said his last goodbyes to him as 24 hours later they were underway when the tragedy hit. Glen is a great man who I have known for many years. This case hit close to home with his son out there plus he is a retired CG Commander who actually served in the Coast Guard Rescue Coordination Center in Boston directing many cases like the Lady Luck.
As we get ready to put our boats in the water this spring, take a few extra minutes and check out all of your safety gear, looking at expiration dates on flares and if fire extinguishers are charged. This gear will save your life if needed never mind keeping you from getting fined. Get in touch with a CG Auxilarist and have a courtesy examination completed at the dock or ramp. There is no charge and no fines can be given out if something is missing.
Please be safe out there and have a great day. Jim, thanks for posting this important article.
Captain Dave Waldrip |