Marine Animal Rescue

Question 1

What are some agencies we’d work with during a marine mammal rescue

Answer 1

• NMFS (marine mammal stranding network)
• Marine Mammal Rescue = Southern/Central
• National Marine fisheries = Northern

Question 2

Describe the procedure for dealing with an injured marine animal and the safety guidelines

Answer 2

• Contact MMR/NMFS
• The size-up should include: location, size, number of animals, physical condition, behavior
• Immediate lifeguard rescue or release necessary with approval of NMFS, command and control will then send appropriate resources
• Lifeguard not to leave scene without IC approval
• Don’t interfere with mammal returning to ocean
• Do not handle an entanglement rescue
• OLS can use LG vehicle for transport if water coverage can be maintained, one MMR employee will accompany OLS
• IC responsible for filing out NFIRS and Entanglement reports

Question 3

How do you deal with a dead animal

Answer 3

• Contact beaches and harbors for removal

- If on SM shorline contact SM beach maint.

Question 4

What law protects marine animals

Answer 4

• Marine Mammal Protection act 1974