Urgent Call for Boat Registration in La Paz Bay Ahead of Hurricane Season

Precautionary Measures for Vessel Owners

The Integral Port Administration of Baja California Sur (API-BCS) has issued an urgent call to both national and foreign boat owners in La Paz Bay to register their vessels immediately as a preventive measure for the hurricane season. This announcement comes after six boats were stranded this week, which have since been removed from the bay. The API-BCS emphasizes the importance of having a registered responsible party for each vessel to ensure proper communication during emergencies.

"We urge all boat owners to provide their contact information and the location of their vessels to facilitate direct communication in case of any eventualities,"

stated María Fernanda Meza García, Director of Operations and Marketing at API-BCS.

Registration Process and Safety Recommendations

To complete the registration, boat owners are required to visit the API offices located at the fiscal dock. They must provide the name of the owner or responsible party, a contact number, and the vessel's location. This information is crucial for establishing a direct line of communication in case of adverse weather conditions.

In addition to registration, Meza García recommends that boat owners verify the proper placement of their anchoring systems. They should secure or remove sails, canopies, flags, tarps, and any objects that could be displaced by strong winds. Furthermore, it is essential to inspect and reinforce moorings, lines, and protective measures against wear and tear. Owners of unused vessels are advised to store them in dry marinas and relocate smaller boats to safe locations outside the bay when meteorological phenomena are expected.

"A proper securing of vessels is vital; inadequate securing can cause damage to other boats or port infrastructure, and the responsible party will have to bear the consequences of any damages incurred,"

Meza García added.

Ongoing Notifications and Community Awareness

API personnel have been actively notifying boat owners directly on their vessels. While most have complied with the registration request, some owners have yet to complete the necessary paperwork. Meza García has urged fishing families and boat owners to remain vigilant and attentive to navigation alerts from the Port Captaincy and preventive notices from Civil Protection.

The API-BCS has highlighted the critical need for boat owners to keep their contact information and vessel details updated. This ensures that authorities can provide timely assistance in case of emergencies, particularly during the hurricane season when risks are heightened.

"We cannot stress enough the importance of being prepared and staying informed. The safety of our community and our vessels depends on proactive measures,"

concluded Meza García.

As the hurricane season approaches, the API-BCS continues to advocate for safety and preparedness among boat owners in La Paz Bay, emphasizing that timely registration and proper vessel management can significantly mitigate risks associated with severe weather events.