SEATTLE — During the pandemic, the United States Coast Guard Sector Puget Sound saw a spike in operations because of increased recreational boaters and vessel traffic.
KIRO 7 was granted access into the Vessel Traffic Service Center, an area rarely seen by civilians. This is where operators are responsible for coordinating the marine traffic in both U.S. and Canadian waters. They closely monitor every vessel to avoid collisions and ensure ships safely reach their port on time.
“We do have more traffic, and because the container ship terminals are not able to handle as much of the traffic as expeditiously as they used to, we have some of our ships going to anchor during this period of time,” said Vessel Traffic Service Director Laird Hail.
Delays could have consumers waiting a little longer for their delivery. Online ordering skyrocketed during the pandemic, increasing container ship traffic by 20% compared to last year. Seattle, Everett and Tacoma combined make up the third largest port in the country. The extra demand from shipping vessels added pressure to those monitoring Puget Sound.
“There was a slight uptick in that, and certainly, my staff here, we do everything for screening the ships for safety, security and environmental compliance prior to the arrival,” said Sector Puget Sound Commander Captain Patrick Hilbert.
During the pandemic there was also a rise in boat sales with more people choosing to get out on the water. As a result, the Coast Guard saw a 20% spike in search-and-rescue calls compared to last year.
“Most of the cases we’ve seen are disabled vessels in which the boat breaks down, their engine dies, they run out of fuel. So those can become pretty dangerous cases with the cold water around the Puget Sound,” said Petty Officer Jeff Padilla.
As more places begin reopening, the Coast Guard is also preparing to secure the waters in preparation for more people.
“Big events, anything with large crowds, our routine day-to-day stuff in the Puget Sound is we sweep all 20 terminal locations and ferries, so we do the vehicles, the ferries themselves and the passengers and gear coming on and off the ferry,” said Petty Officer Jon Kimmel.
Petty Officer Kimmel and his K9 Debbie search for explosives, ammunition or firearms. Debbie’s skills are critical in the Coast Guard’s safety operations.
“A canine is the most reliable, versatile, cost-efficient detection tool that we have,” said Petty Officer Kimmel.
Responsible for more than 3,500 square miles of waterways, it’s a natural resource that requires a combined effort. The Coast Guard is calling on those who cherish this place to also play a role.
“Would urge the public that enjoy and recreate and also the commercial activities out there, that everybody does their part to do that in a safe and secure way,” said Captain Hilbert.
Cox Media Group
