Florida joins counter-terrorism programme
Key West and Palm Beach have been selected to demonstrate a private-sector approach to waterborne antiterrorism security patrols. SeaWolf Security Group will be conducting a pilot programme to patrol the ports using a variety of purpose-designed security boats and specially trained security operators.
SeaSecure is managing the pilot programme. “The recent elevation of the nation’s security level to Condition Orange coincided with an increase in the Maritime Security Level to MARSEC 2, ” explained Mike Fletcher, president of SeaWolf. “With this increase came recommendations from the Department of Homeland Security that ports increase waterside security with an eye to preventing attacks, such as those committed by al-Qaeda against the USS COLE and the French oil tanker LIMBURG.”
The USCG has encouraged US ports to provide in-water security to protect shipping.
When there are cruise ships in port, such patrols become mandatory. They re sually performed by either local law enforcement or the cruise ships, which deploy lifeboats to enforce stand-off requirements set by the Coast Guard.
SeaSecure was selected to create a maritime security programme that would ensure each of Florida’s 14 deepwater ports developed physical, personnel, and information security programmes that would comply with regulatory requirements and defend against terrorism and crime.
The firm has also created an ISPS Code and MTSA-compliant maritime security video/DVD training programme.
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