ST. PETERSBURG, Fla. – The U.S. Coast Guard will host a commercial parasail vessel safety workshop, with the participation of the Professional Association of Parasail Operators (PAPO), Friday, April 11, from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. at the Eckerd College Continuing Education Center, 4200 54th Avenue South, in St. Petersburg, Fla.
The goal of the workshop is to promote parasail vessel safety, and strengthen the relationship between all stakeholders. Representatives from Coast Guard Sector St. Petersburg will present an analysis of parasail vessel marine casualties and lessons learned. Industry representatives from PAPO will present tips for safe business and accepted safe work practices. Participation in the Coast Guard’s voluntary parasail vessel safety examination program will also be encouraged.
“This program, originally established in 2004, is intended to enhance safe parasail operations by establishing good marine practices as it pertains to the parasail operations and maintenance of parasail equipment,” said Lt. Cmdr. Kevin Carroll, a member of Coast Guard Sector St. Petersburg’s Prevention Department. “Responsible parasail operators will be able to schedule safety examinations with Sector St. Petersburg’s Parasail Vessel Examiners.”
Operators who meet all the requirements of the voluntary examination will receive a decal signifying their conformance with parasail safe practices. This examination stresses proper maintenance and record keeping of parasail equipment as well as requires operators to conduct parasail operations within certain established safety confines.
This meeting is ideal for anyone associated with, or interested in, the parasail vessel industry. For more information please contact Lt. Cmdr. Kevin Carroll at 813-228-2191, ext. 8102.
