United States Coast Guard Sector Buffalo

10/08/2021

Float plans, float plans, float plans. Often a forgotten tool that can be very beneficial when locating missing mariners. Why should you take the time to prepare a float plan? The answer is simple... there are just too many facts that need to be accurately remembered and ultimately conveyed in an emergency situation. Without a float plan you are counting on someone else, a friend, neighbor, or family member to remember detailed information that Coast Guard personnel need in order to find you. Information that can make a difference in the outcome.

A float Plan is equally effective for a wide array of vessels ranging from a 10 foot kayak or flat-bottom skiff to a 48 foot express cruiser, or a 90 foot sport-fishing vessel. Below is a link to a fillable float plan PDF. Remember to leave your float plan with someone you trust or a Coast Guard auxiliary unit.

http://floatplancentral.cgaux.org/

Float plans, float plans, float plans. Often a forgotten tool that can be very beneficial when locating missing mariners. Why should you take the time to prepare a float plan? The answer is simple... there are just too many facts that need to be accurately remembered and ultimately conveyed in an emergency situation. Without a float plan you are counting on someone else, a friend, neighbor, or family member to remember detailed information that Coast Guard personnel need in order to find you. Information that can make a difference in the outcome.

A float Plan is equally effective for a wide array of vessels ranging from a 10 foot kayak or flat-bottom skiff to a 48 foot express cruiser, or a 90 foot sport-fishing vessel. Below is a link to a fillable float plan PDF. Remember to leave your float plan with someone you trust or a Coast Guard auxiliary unit.

http://floatplancentral.cgaux.org/

10/07/2021

Who was at the Sabres game Monday night? If you were, then you might've seen a few of Buffalo's Aids to Navigation Team Members manning the zamboni. No one needed rescuing, but that didn't stop Petty Officer Davala and Petty Officer Perret from getting out on the ice and showing the crowd a few moves on the zamboni. These guys work very hard so it's great to see them get the opportunity to relax and enjoy some off time.

Unfortunately, there weren't too many smiles all around as Sabres added another loss to their preseason record, but it's safe to say ANT Buffalo had a great time anyway.

10/07/2021

Have you ever wanted to file a float plan with the Coast Guard, request a vessel safety check or report a hazard to navigation? Did you know the Coast Guard has an app for that?

As the nation's recreational boating safety coordinator, the Coast Guard works to minimize loss of life, personal injury, property damage, and environmental damage. The Coast Guard Mobile App supports these missions by providing essential services and information.

Through the app you can, find the latest safety regulations, view safety equipment checklists, report hazards, pollution and suspicious activity and even request emergency assistance. The Coast Guard app is your one stop shop for all things boater safety.

Have you ever wanted to file a float plan with the Coast Guard, request a vessel safety check or report a hazard to navigation? Did you know the Coast Guard has an app for that?

As the nation's recreational boating safety coordinator, the Coast Guard works to minimize loss of life, personal injury, property damage, and environmental damage. The Coast Guard Mobile App supports these missions by providing essential services and information.

Through the app you can, find the latest safety regulations, view safety equipment checklists, report hazards, pollution and suspicious activity and even request emergency assistance. The Coast Guard app is your one stop shop for all things boater safety.

10/06/2021

Sector Buffalo recently had the opportunity of hosting the Atlantic Area Commander Admiral Steven Poulin and our very own District Admiral Michael Johnston. We were able to show Admiral Poulin Sector Buffalo operations and how we overcome the unique challenges within our area of responsibility.

We also took the opportunity to have Admiral Poulin recognize a few of our outstanding shipmates here at Sector, including EM3 Ritter, BM3 Tharp, and FN Crandell. We really appreciate Admiral Poulin taking the time to visit Sector Buffalo.

09/30/2021

During the summer season Coast Guard Sector Buffalo receives tons of reports regarding missing or adrift kayaks. Cases involving unmanned kayaks usually result in a significant use of Coast Guard resources. When the Coast Guard isn't actively searching for a person in the water, we spend a majority of time trying to identify the owner.

Fortunately, the Coast Guard and Coast Guard Auxilary can issue out these simple orange vessel identification stickers. You place these on a prominent portion of your kayak and we will be able to contact you if your kayak is found adrift in the lakes or rivers.

09/19/2021

We'd like to thank the crews of Station Buffalo and Aids to Navigation Team Buffalo for excellently demonstrating the use of the P-6 pump for Congressman Chris Jacobs. Due to this demonstration, we were able to properly convey the importance of time when it comes to Search and Rescue as well as how invaluable the P-6 pump can be.

It's safe to say we were impressed with how the crews were able to operate the pump with ease. We all hope to never have to use this piece of equipment, but it does help us sleep better knowing that in any case, our crews here in Buffalo can handle it.

09/19/2021

Over the weekend, we had the opportunity to host Congressman Chris Jacobs and give a behind the scenes tour of our Sector and how we operate and carryout our various missions. We were also able to walk over to Station Buffalo and take a ride on the 45' around Buffalo Harbor.

Thank you Congressman Chris Jacobs for taking the time out and visiting Coast Guard Sector Buffalo. We'd love to have you again, your boat handling skills were great.

09/11/2021

Today we recognize the 20th Anniversary of September 11th. This day weighs heavy for many Americans but, we continue to honor the sacrifices made by the thousands of heroes who were dedicated to saving lives.

Join us in person or through livestream of the 20th Anniversary of 9/11 at the Buffalo Naval Park.

Today we recognize the 20th Anniversary of September 11th. This day weighs heavy for many Americans but, we continue to honor the sacrifices made by the thousands of heroes who were dedicated to saving lives.

Join us in person or through livestream of the 20th Anniversary of 9/11 at the Buffalo Naval Park.

09/02/2021

Next in our series of answering your burning questions regarding barges in the Great Lakes are load line requirements and their purpose.

So what is a load line and why do some ships have load lines while others don't?

The assignment of a load line is a requirement for most commercial U.S. vessels that operate on coastwise, Great Lakes, and ocean routes. With limited exceptions, most commercial U.S. vessels more than 79 feet long that venture offshore (beyond the Boundary Line) or on the Great Lakes are required to have a load line assignment. The most familiar load line feature is the well-known “Plimsoll mark” on each side of the hull amidships. The marks indicate the maximum waterline to which the vessel can be legally loaded. However, there is more to load lines than that: the purpose of load line assignment is to ensure the overall seaworthiness of the intact (undamaged) vessel. The Marine Safety Information Bulletin (MSIB) 02-21 below provides further information for vessel and modular barge load lines on the Great Lakes.

08/31/2021

Silver Life Saving Medal Award Ceremony

08/31/2021

Sector Buffalo has received many messages inquiring on whether certain vessels need specific documentation and where to find more information about rules behind vessel documentation. Fortunately, we have a great team over in our Prevention shop who have the answers to those burning questions.

So what is vessel documentation and who needs it?

Vessel documentation is a national form of vessel registration, approved by a Certificate of Documentation (COD) issued by the U.S. Coast Guard’s National Vessel Documentation Center (NVDC). Vessels that are 5 net tons or greater who engage in coastwise trade or fisheries on U.S. waters, must be documented. The Marine Safety Information Bulletin (MSIB) 03-21 below provides further information for documentation of vessels and modular barges on the Great Lakes.

08/28/2021

www.facebook.com

Join us in celebrating the bravery and heroism displayed by Shane Morrison when he witnessed another teen jump in the water and begin struggling to stay afloat. Quick to action, Shane jumped in after him and kept both himself and the teen afloat until the Coast Guard arrived.

This Tuesday, we will honor Shane with one of the Coast Guard's most prestigous awards. The Silver Life Saving Medal. The event will be livestreamed from Fairport, Ohio. You may watch live by clicking on the link provided below.

https://www.facebook.com/USCGSectorBuffalo/live_videos/

08/26/2021

Coast Guard performs CPR on 52-year-old female at restaurant near Fairport, Ohio

Talk about being in the right place at the right time. Recently in Fairport, Ohio, a 52 year old woman while out to dinner had suddenly suffered from a heart attack.

Fortunately, Station Fairport's boat crew had been dining in at the same restaurant and quickly sprung into action. The crew performed life saving CPR and stayed with the woman until EMS arrived on scene.

Bravo Zulu to Station Fairport for being always ready to save a life, no matter where or when.

Click the link to read the full story below.
https://content.govdelivery.com/accounts/USDHSCG/bulletins/2ede016

Coast Guard performs CPR on 52-year-old female at restaurant near Fairport, Ohio U.S. Coast Guard sent this bulletin at 08/22/2021 02:58 PM EDT 9th District online newsroom Coast Guard performs CPR on 52-year-old female at restaurant near Fairport, Ohio U.S. Coast Guard Station Fairport crew members...

08/10/2021

Yesterday we had the privilege of honoring the sacrifice made by our fallen shipmates SN Ferreby and BM2 Chism. In that honoring, we dedicated a memorial displayed proudly in front of Coast Guard Station Niagara.

MK3 Simpson, who was a member of the crew on that fateful day, joined us for the ceremony. Pictured below is MK3 Simpson's son who is named after Scott Chism and Chris Ferreby sitting in front of the memorial.

Thank you for joining us MK3 and thank you to all of our esteemed guests who were able to join us for the ceremony.

08/09/2021

Niagara Rededication Memorial

08/09/2021

Good morning all, use the provided link to join in on the Niagara Memorial Livestream.

Link below:
https://facebook.com/USCGSectorBuffalo/videos/939936159889289/

08/09/2021

Good morning everyone, today we will be holding a memorial rededication in honor of our fallen shipmates BM2 Scott Chism and SN Chris Ferreby who lost their lives in the line of duty March 24th, 2001. The ceremony will take place at Coast Guard Station Niagara but, we will also livestream the event here on our page.

Please feel free to honor our fallen and watch the memorial live here at 1PM EST.

08/05/2021

Sector Buffalo staff did an outstanding job coordinating the Blue Angels airshow over Buffalo and as an appreciation for a job well done, the 328th Airlift Squadron took Sector Buffalo members for a flyover in their KC-135 Stratotanker.

Thank you to the 328th Airlift Squadron for the experience, it was much appreciated and we look forward to future engagements.

Sector Buffalo staff did an outstanding job coordinating the Blue Angels airshow over Buffalo and as an appreciation for a job well done, the 328th Airlift Squadron took Sector Buffalo members for a flyover in their KC-135 Stratotanker.

Thank you to the 328th Airlift Squadron for the experience, it was much appreciated and we look forward to future engagements.

08/05/2021

Coast Guard members rescue man from burning vehicle in Lorain, Ohio

Bravo Zulu to two brave Coasties from Coast Guard Station Lorain, Seaman Thomas Borden and PO3 Kaleb Hersey who courageously put themselves in danger to rescue a man from a burning vehicle. Their actions further highlight the Coast Guard's continuous mission to save lives everyday.

Read more about the story by clicking on the link below:

https://content.govdelivery.com/accounts/USDHSCG/bulletins/2eb2761

Coast Guard members rescue man from burning vehicle in Lorain, Ohio U.S. Coast Guard sent this bulletin at 08/03/2021 02:46 PM EDT 9th District online newsroom Coast Guard members rescue man from burning vehicle in Lorain, Ohio Contact Us online newsroom here. SUBSCRIBER SERVICES:Manage Preferences....

07/04/2021

Happy 4th of July everyone, today we celebrate 245 years of independence. We are proud to raise our National ensign as a symbol of freedom.
While we are excited to see everyone celebrating today, we’d like to take the time to remind boaters to ensure they are taking precautions and staying safe on the lakes, rivers and the St.Lawrence Seaway.

Remember:
• Wear your life vests while on the water and be aware of your surroundings
• Notify friends or families of when you’ll be out on the water or leave them a float plan.
• Have fun and enjoy your day responsibly

Happy 4th of July everyone, today we celebrate 245 years of independence. We are proud to raise our National ensign as a symbol of freedom.
While we are excited to see everyone celebrating today, we’d like to take the time to remind boaters to ensure they are taking precautions and staying safe on the lakes, rivers and the St.Lawrence Seaway.

Remember:
• Wear your life vests while on the water and be aware of your surroundings
• Notify friends or families of when you’ll be out on the water or leave them a float plan.
• Have fun and enjoy your day responsibly

06/23/2021

Captain Littlejohn and Senior Chief Sutton were very honored to be part of such a memorable experience for the graduating recruit company Quebec-200. Captain Littlejohn and Senior Chief Sutton volunteered to be the mentors for Quebec-200 and provided guidance on the new and exciting challenges to come in the Coast Guard.
Bravo Zulu to Quebec-200 for completing the rigorous training required to join the world's greatest Coast Guard. We wish you all fair winds and following seas as newly minted coasties.

06/23/2021

Today is bittersweet as we recognize the departure of one our Intel shop members, IS1 McElhaney. IS1 has been an integral part in maintaining operational awareness within Sector Buffalo's area of responsibility. We wish him the best of luck at his next unit, Bravo Zulu IS1.

06/23/2021

Blue Angels

If you live anywhere in Buffalo, you've probaly heard and even seen a few jets flying overhead. This past weekend we were lucky enough to catch the Blue Angels perform over Buffalo. Those gravity defying stunts were exciting to say the least. If you were one of the few to miss the show, don't worry, here's a small recap for you here.

06/02/2021

https://homeport.uscg.mil/Lists/Content/Attachments/68591/Thunder%20on%20the%20Outer%20Harbor%20Air%20Show.pdf

https://homeport.uscg.mil/Lists/Content/Attachments/68591/Thunder%20on%20the%20Outer%20Harbor%20Air%20Show.pdf

05/27/2021

It’s almost Memorial Day and we all want to get out on the lake, but here’s a National Safe Boating Week reminder.

Boating under the influence is just as dangerous as drinking and driving, boat operators are actually likely to become impaired more quickly than a driver, drink for drink.

The USCG has strict penalties for boating under the influence and penalties can include large fines, license suspension, or jail terms.

Consider alcohol alternatives such as cold sodas or smoothies while boating under the sun or wait to have the party back at the docks, a picnic area, or your backyard.

Remember to have fun and stay safe out there on the lake.

It’s almost Memorial Day and we all want to get out on the lake, but here’s a National Safe Boating Week reminder.

Boating under the influence is just as dangerous as drinking and driving, boat operators are actually likely to become impaired more quickly than a driver, drink for drink.

The USCG has strict penalties for boating under the influence and penalties can include large fines, license suspension, or jail terms.

Consider alcohol alternatives such as cold sodas or smoothies while boating under the sun or wait to have the party back at the docks, a picnic area, or your backyard.

Remember to have fun and stay safe out there on the lake.