Fishers get lifesaving lessons

More than 40 fisherfolk have received specialised safety training this year under the National Fisheries Authority’s (NFA) annual Safety at Sea Training Programme, an initiative aimed at improving safety standards across Jamaica’s fishing sector.

The programme, which was organised and fully funded by the NFA under its Productivity Incentive Programme, represented an investment of $3.7 million. Training was delivered by the Caribbean Maritime University (CMU) through a combination of classroom instruction and practical exercises.

Participants were equipped with knowledge and skills designed to help them operate safely at sea and respond effectively in emergencies. Areas covered included survival at sea, occupational health and safety practices, VHF radio use, firefighting, first aid, and emergency response procedures.

Kyle Shaw, lecturer at CMU and head of the department of professional training and certification in the faculty of marine and nautical studies, said the programme builds on the existing experience of fisherfolk while strengthening their capacity to deal with emergencies.

“This training is designed to give fishermen the requisite skills, knowledge and understanding to safely operate at sea. With the areas covered, it will help them to become more rounded and safer while functioning at sea, particularly in emergency and distress situations. Basically, it gives them a foundation to enhance the practices and skills they already have.”

Shellene Berry, senior director of extension services in the NFA’s Capture Fisheries Division, underscored the importance of safety training in an industry that faces numerous occupational risks.

“The Safety at Sea training is a critical component of the NFA’s commitment to protecting the lives, livelihoods, and well-being of Jamaica’s fisherfolk. Fishing is an inherently high-risk occupation, with fishers exposed to changing weather conditions, rough seas, mechanical failures, navigation challenges, accidents, and other emergencies while operating at sea.”

She noted that the programme also helps to strengthen the culture of safety within fishing communities by enabling fisherfolk to identify hazards, make informed decisions and respond appropriately during emergencies.

According to Berry, these skills can help reduce accidents, injuries, equipment loss and disruptions to livelihoods.

Among those who benefited from the training was Donald Bell of the River Bay Fishing Beach in Montego Bay, who said the sessions highlighted the importance of continuous learning, regardless of experience.

“After fishing for many years, you can become comfortable with being out on the open waters and think you know what to do. But this training made me realise that there is always more to learn and more that I can do to save a life, whether it is my own or someone else’s. The knowledge and skills I gained here can make a real difference in an emergency. I believe this kind of training is truly needed for fishers across the island.”

The NFA said it will continue to promote education, skills development, and safety awareness, as part of efforts to support the sustainable development of Jamaica’s fisheries sector. The agency is also encouraging fisherfolk to prioritise safety and apply the knowledge and skills gained through training in their day-to-day operations.