The Marine Fire Safety Association (MFSA) joined nearly 200 maritime professionals at the 2026 National Harbor Safety Conference, held March 24–25 in Seattle and hosted by the Marine Exchange of Puget Sound. The annual conference brings together harbor safety committees, port authorities, regulators, and industry stakeholders from across the country to share best practices and strengthen collaboration around maritime safety, security, and environmental protection.

As a sponsor of the event, MFSA had the opportunity to engage directly with attendees, including during a lunch session where Executive Director Curtis Cannizzaro provided an overview of MFSA and its Fire Protection Agencies Advisory Council (FPAAC). Cannizzaro also participated in a panel discussion titled “Advancing Shipboard Fire Safety: National Strategies, Local Action,” highlighting the importance of coordinated response efforts and regional preparedness.

During the conference, the Lower Columbia Region Harbor Safety Committee (LCRHSC) — of which MFSA is a board member — was honored with the U.S. Coast Guard Distinguished Harbor Safety Committee Award, recognizing its leadership and commitment to improving maritime safety in the region. MFSA also shared insights into FPAAC’s work, including its development following the Protector Alpha ship fire, its tiered marine firefighting training programs, and its unique funding model supported by voluntary vessel fees. The conference provided a valuable platform for networking and collaboration, reinforcing MFSA’s role in advancing shipboard fire preparedness across the Lower Columbia region.