Fishermen’s safety is a topic of discussion throughout the country. From captivating tv series to memorial services and everything in between, we all feel a connection to those brave enough to work at sea.

The process of ensuring safety for fishermen begins before the boats leave the dock, with emergency plans and equipment in place. The blessing of the fleet is a nod to the fact that even the best plans and safety equipment are not always good enough to save a life on their own.

Blessing of the Fleet

This year in Seattle the annual Blessing of the Fleet ceremony will be held at 2:00 p.m. on Sunday, March 8th at Fishermen’s Terminal.  Hosted by Ballard First Lutheran Church, family, friends and guests are encouraged to join the ceremony at the Central Plaza at Fishermen’s Terminal.

Fishermen’s Safety Fair

Each year Seattle Fishermen’s Memorial hosts a Fishermen’s Safety Fair to teach fishermen practical skills to save their boats and their lives. This year’s event will be held 9:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m. Thursday, June 4. The event will be held at Fishermen’s Terminal at Dock 9. For more information please contact: Safety@seattlefishermensmemorial.org.

Seattle Fishermen’s Memorial believes that a significant number of lives can be saved if more fishermen are trained and understand: vessel stability, shipboard fire-fighting, first aid / CPR, and drill instructor certification. In addition, Seattle Fishermen’s Memorial supports the concept of onboard training and vessel emergency team training.

As part of its commitment to promote safer vessels, the Seattle Fishermen’s Memorial Board is making funds available to Washington-based commercial fishing vessel owners and their crew members, and fishermen who are Washington residents. This ongoing program started August 1st, 1995. See their website for a complete list of safety training opportunities.

Read our prior post: PORT 101 TOUR, SHIP CANAL for a glimpse of a behind-the-scenes tour of Seattle’s Fishermen’s Terminal, the Ship Canal, and the Ballard Locks.