If a vessel is unknown at Craney Island Pier, what is the first action?

• A. Contact Dispatch/Watch Commander
• B. Board the vessel to gather information
• C. Notify the vessel's owner
• D. Ignore until it raises no concern

Answer: (A)

The first action is to contact Dispatch/Watch Commander. In a security-sensitive area like Craney Island Pier, escalating the situation to the command chain immediately ensures the proper authorities can assess risk, coordinate a formal response, and keep everyone safe. Approaching to board or trying to gather information without authorization can put you at risk and bypass established security procedures, which could delay or derail a safe resolution. Dispatch/Watch Commander will determine whether additional units are needed, what information to collect, and how to proceed.

While waiting for guidance, observe from a safe distance and note details that can help responders, such as the vessel’s size and type, color and markings, any flags, its position, and any signs of distress or suspicious activity. Maintain radio communication with the command and follow their instructions. Do not attempt to board the vessel or notify the owner directly; those steps should come through the official chain of command. Ignoring the vessel is not an option when security is involved.