Lobster Fishermen Reminded to Practise Safety as Season Starts

Lobster fishermen in southwest Nova Scotia are reminded to stay safe as they launch the start of their season Monday, Nov. 28, commonly known as Dumping Day.

"We know fishing is dangerous work," said Kelly Regan, Minister of Labour and Advanced Education. "Here in Nova Scotia, fishermen have been working to improve safety in their industry over the last few years. I urge them to keep safety top of mind on Dumping Day and all through the season."

For the communities of southwestern Nova Scotia, Dumping Day is one of the most nerve-racking and exciting days of the year.

Captains and their crew head out to sea before daylight with boats piled high with lobster traps. These heavy traps can be an issue in choppy waters. Fishermen are urged to monitor the weather before heading out to sea, regularly examine safety gear, wear their personal flotation devices, and be prepared in the event of an emergency.

"Fishing is woven into the fabric of Nova Scotia, and its future is built on safety," said Amanda Dedrick, health and safety co-ordinator of the Fisheries Safety Association of Nova Scotia. "As we enhance safety through prevention programs, education, advocacy, communication and awareness, Nova Scotia's fishing industry will become a world leader in safe-operating practices."

Industry and government have developed the Fishing Safety Now plan to make the commercial fishing industry safer. To learn more, go to www.workplacesafetystrategy.ca/Home/Fishing-Safety.

The need to reduce workplace death and injuries in industries like fishing is a key part of Nova Scotia's Workplace Safety Strategy. To learn more about the strategy visit www.workplacesafetystrategy.ca.