Mokpo Coast Guard Strengthens Preparedness and Response Posture for Winter Marine Accidents

To prevent various maritime accidents caused by adverse winter weather and to maintain a prompt search and rescue system, efforts are being intensified to strengthen preparedness and response measures for maritime accidents. ⓒ Asia Economy

[Asia Economy Honam Reporting Headquarters, Reporter Seo Young-seo] Mokpo Maritime Police Station (Chief Im Jae-su) announced on the 17th that it will strengthen its preparedness and response system for maritime accidents from November to February next year to prevent various maritime accidents caused by winter weather deterioration and to maintain a prompt search and rescue system.

According to Mokpo Maritime Police, a total of 301 vessels were involved in accidents in the local waters during the winter season (November to February) over the past three years, accounting for 26.3% of the total 1,144 maritime accident vessels. Among them, fishing vessels were the most frequent with 184 vessels (61%).

By type, there were 89 cases (30%) of navigation and safety hindrance, followed by 78 cases (26%) of engine damage. The main causes of accidents were human factors, with 131 cases (44%) due to careless navigation and 109 cases (36%) due to poor maintenance.

In response, the Maritime Police plans to strengthen special management of accident-prone waters through the ‘Patrol Vessel Sector Management System,’ implement the ‘Passenger Vessel Operation Management Warning System,’ maintain cooperation with related agencies, thoroughly prevent winter vessel fire accidents, and enhance safety education, publicity, and guidance for maritime workers.

A Mokpo Maritime Police official stated, “Winter is a period with a high risk of maritime accidents due to frequent weather deterioration,” and added, “Since accidents caused by human factors such as safety negligence occur frequently, maritime workers need to pay special attention to safe navigation and equipment inspection.”

This content was produced with the assistance of AI translation services.