MMA Sea Term - Follow the Voyage

The Cadets on board the T.S. Kennedy started yesterday with a fire and emergency drill and an abandon ship drill while simultaneously enduring the brisk winter conditions. These drills are used as a simulator for students to educate them of their responsibilities in the event of an emergency while out at sea. Before receiving permission from the Coast Guard to set sail, we will have to perform our fire and emergency drill and abandon ship drill while the Coast Guard measures our performance for compliance. The results of our drills will determine whether or not we can set sail this Saturday.

Each different emergencies has its very own "signature" pattern on the ships whistle and general alarm. The PA system also gives a brief announcement to ensure that there is no confusion. Once you hear the whistle, you must make your way to your pre-assigned lifeboat, with your lifejacket for a muster. 

After completing the drills today the seniors and the sophomores continued to on load and prepare the ship to set sail. Today, the freshmen were fortunate enough too got out of the cold weather and into Pande Hall where they received briefings on Marine Engineering, Marine Transportation, Cadet Vessel Security, and Emergency Management Fatigue.

Safety drills are a significant part of SeaTerm training. These boat drills ensure the cadets' safety as well as prepare them for the "worst case scenarios" that could happen aboard a vessel. It takes cooperation and attentiveness in order for these boat drills to be a success. 

Engineering Thursday:

Keeping sailors safe on their voyages is a important task for those who design emergency equipment. This build a lifeboat simulation game will challenge you think like an engineer. 

This "Life Vest Challenge" explores how engineers work to solve the challenges of a society, such as creating and improving devices that can help prevent loss of life in water. You will work in teams to devise a system using every day materials that can keep an unopened can of soup or vegetables afloat for at least a minute in a bucket of water or sink.