Bow Saga took initiative to practice various ways to recover persons from the water while well-anchored at Fairway Anchorage in Point Comfort, Texas October 6th.
Five brave crewmembers showed no hesitation when given the challenge to jump off the ship and be rescued. They were all smiles when they agreed to the challenge, and showed eagerness to partake in the activity.
To prepare for the drill, the crewmembers gathered in the Chief Officer's office to complete the Task Risk Assessment.
The actual drill commenced, and with the use of Markus Net, life ring, pilot ladder and the rescue quoit of the rescue boat, the five crewmembers were successfully rescued from the water.
The leadership of Captain Luisito Cantona, coupled by the collaboration and teamwork of the crew on board Bow Saga, made the rescue activity a successful and beneficial one.
“The drill made me aware of what should be done shall I fall into the water. I learned what to do to keep myself alive in the middle of a cold sea, and how I will be rescued. We even performed the huddle position to preserve the heat. The entire activity had been fun and educational."
Joa Kim Clint Antoyo, Engine Cadet
“My fear of heights was diminished even for a little. I’m happy because the drill was successful and was accomplished without an incident.”
Willard Bulos, Deck Boy
“The experience had been awesome. I had fun while indulging knowledge on what to do to last in the water, floating while visualizing the possible ways I will be rescued. I was rescued by the Markus Net; it had been quite an experience to hang on the side of the ship. This is definitely something I can be proud of for the rest of my life.”
Zayber Araya, Deck Cadet
“Drills like this prepare the crew for emergencies. We are trained on how to react and what to do during situations like man overboard or recovery of a person from the water.”
Richard Heriales, Engine Boy
“Knowledge is power and it would be the sharpest tool during real-life scenarios. What we did might have been a drill, but it showed us how difficult the situation could be in reality. Falling overboard will not kill somebody, but lack of knowledge will. A drill like this is definitely a good practice and makes the crew more competent."
Joemarc Almirez, Deck Cadet
“Knowledge is power. Actual training and different learning experiences are what I’m pushing through especially for young blood seafarers like cadets and boys. Another goal of mine on why I’m doing this kind of drill is to refresh the knowledge of the crew and make them familiar with the things they are supposed to do during emergency situations. Readiness of the crew is what I’m building and training; drills and schooling are my solution.”
Captain Luisito Cantona, Master
Empowering the crew is first in line on board Bow Saga. The ship's priorities include educating the crew on different aspects of safety. The readiness of the crew during emergency situations can be tested through drills and can be refined during schooling and trainings.
Having enough knowledge and skills furnished through experiences will make you strong, and possessing the right attitude will make you do the right thing during emergency situations, keeping you and your team mates safe.
