Sea Safety and Survival (Drill Instructor) and Fishermen First Aid and Safety Training (FFAST) in Bellingham
May 15, 2026 - May 17, 2026
Washington Sea Grant is holding a combined Sea Safety and Survival (Drill Instructor) and Fishermen First Aid and Safety Training (FFAST) in Bellingham.
The Coast Guard-approved Sea Safety and Survival course meets the training requirements of the Commercial Fishing Safety Act to conduct drills. Coursework combines lectures and hands-on experience with the safety and survival equipment that is now required for commercial fishing vessels. Participants will learn about emergency procedures and will be trained to develop appropriate emergency drills for their own vessels.
The Fisherman First Aid and Safety Training was built to help commercial fishermen prevent and treat injuries they may encounter at sea. It takes into account the small crews, common injuries, vessel environments, cold water, rough seas, and delayed emergency response times typical to Pacific Northwest fisheries. Successful completion of this course will fulfill the Coast Guard requirements for CPR and AED basic first aid.
Captains and boat owners are encouraged to bring their whole crew!
When:
May 15-17, 2026
8:30 a.m.–4:30 p.m.
Where:
708 Coho Way
Bellingham, WA
Fee:
$200 ($100 for commercial fishermen)
Pre-registration is required.
For more details, including scholarship information, contact Robert Maw, rmaw@uw.edu.
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Washington Sea Grant, based at the University of Washington, helps people and marine life thrive through research, technical expertise and education supporting the responsible use and conservation of coastal ecosystems. Washington Sea Grant is one of 34 Sea Grant programs supported by the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration in coastal and Great Lakes states that encourage the wise stewardship of our marine resources.