U.S. Coast Guard Auxiliary - Grand Junction, Colorado

01/09/2025

Be careful out there.

While some of us are unable to head out on liquid water and turn to frozen water activities, it's essential to prioritize safety while enjoying our favorite activities on the ice. Whether you're ice fishing, skating, or snowmobiling, knowing the thickness of the ice is crucial!

Here are some important tips:

1. Check the Thickness: Always measure the ice thickness before venturing out. A minimum of 4 inches of clear, solid ice is generally safe for walking, while 6 inches is recommended for snowmobiles and 8-12 inches for small vehicles.

2. Look for Signs: Be cautious of areas that may be weak, such as near inlets, outlets, or where there's moving water. Be aware of changes in color and texture—white or slushy ice, which is usually weaker.

3. Go with a Buddy: Never go out on the ice alone. Having a buddy can be a lifesaver in case of emergencies.

4. Keep Safety Gear Handy: Always have safety gear such as ice picks, a life jacket, and a throw rope within reach.

5. Know When to Turn Back: If you feel uncertain about the ice conditions, trust your instincts and stay safe by turning back.

Remember, safety first! Let's enjoy this winter season responsibly. Share your ice adventures and tips below! ❄️⛸️

06/23/2024

06/23/2024

🎂🎉 Happy Birthday U.S. Coast Guard Auxiliary!! 🎉🎂

Established by Congress on June 23, 1939, the Auxiliary is the volunteer service of the U.S. Coast Guard. The Auxiliary is non-military and performs the civil missions of the Coast Guard as directed by the Commandant. There is no shortage of opportunities available to anyone interested in joining.

Some areas of interest are:
Vessel Exams
Public Education
Public Affairs
Human Resources
Academy Admissions Partner Program
Culinary Service Program
And many more

If you would like more information or are interested in joining the Auxiliary, click the following link to get more information about becoming a member of Team Coast Guard.

🔗 :https://www.cgaux.org.

10/13/2023

This is the first time in 50 years Highline Lake will not offer boating

05/21/2023

05/21/2023

Help ensure that you have a great National Safe Boating Week by wearing a life jacket! You never know when an unexpected fall overboard could change your life and the lives of those who love you.

05/03/2023

MAYDAY! MAYDAY! MAYDAY! This is only a test!

May Day is not just for flowers and rainbows. MAYDAY is also an internationally recognized radio distress call used by vessels and aircraft.

Knowledge of distress signals is important for all boaters and paddlers. Distress signals may be visual, sound or electronic.

Visual distress signals may include: flares, smoke, red star shells, black ball and square on orange background sheet, parachute red flare, dye marker, November over Charlie code flags, square flag and ball, arms waving, white light flashing (inland waters), signaling SOS, flames, mirror.

Sound signaling devices may include: whistle, fog horn, boat horn, air horn, gun at one minutes intervals, bell or other noise.

Electronic distress methods: MAYDAY on the radio, PLBs and EPRIBS, signaling SOS, digital selective calling.

There are specific types of distress signals you need for recreational boats. Any distress signals that you bring aboard should be Coast Guard-approved. Some signals are classified as either daytime or nightime, so be sure to have signals for both.

Are you a recreational boater and want to double check your equipment on board to help ascertain if it meets state and federal requirements and safety needs? Schedule a free Vessel Safety Check with your local flotilla or request an appointment here: https://cgaux.org/vsc/





DVIDS hub archive Illustration with sampling of distress signals: https://www.dvidshub.net/image/3327091/10-standard-marine-distress-signals

For more information on distress signals, visit https://www.dco.uscg.mil/CG-ENG-4/VDS/

04/09/2023

Happy Easter Shipmates! 🐰

(Photo courtesy of kayaker Beverly Scott, used with written permission.)

04/07/2023

04/05/2023

04/02/2023

Are you interested in serving your country and community? We are looking for volunteers for the U.S. Coast Guard Auxiliary. We can use your talents in various program areas from boat crew to cybersecurity to culinary assistance, and many needs in between.

For more information, please visit cgaux.org and look for a flotilla nearest you!

🇺🇲 ⚓️ 🇺🇲 ⚓️ 🇺🇲 ⚓️ 🇺🇲 ⚓️ 🇺🇲 ⚓️🇺🇲 ⚓️

03/23/2023

Wearing a lifejacket is crucial for anyone participating in a water activity. Accidents can happen in an instant, and wearing a lifejacket can give you the extra time you need to stay afloat and call for help. Even strong swimmers can quickly become exhausted and disoriented in cold water, strong currents, or rough seas. Always wear your lifejacket, and encourage others to do the same to ensure a safe and enjoyable day on the water.

Photo courtesy of safeboatingcouncil.org.