District Seven Prevention Directorate


Welcome to the District Seven Prevention Directorate Website. The District 7 Prevention Directorate is led by DDC-P Daniel Helou and includes Marine Safety & Environmental Protection, Navigation Systems, Member Training, Public Education, Vessel Exams, Partner Visits, Aux Scout and our State Liason Office.

District 7 supports 6 sectors: Charleston, Jacksonville, St. Petersburg, Miami, Key West and San Juan as well as 4 Air Stations: Savannah, Clearwater, Miami and Borinquen. It is the Coast Guard's largest and most active Auxiliary District. 

As the District Directorate - Prevention of the US Coast Guard Auxiliary, our mission is guided by a profound sense of pride in serving our Nation, a commitment to excellence, and the enduring camaraderie that binds us together. This mission focus seeks to encapsulate the core values and principles that drive our work and shape our vision for the future.  The D7 Prevention Directorate is committed to:



The Roles of the Auxiliary Prevention Dept.

An Overview of Duties and Responsibilities

Marine Safety & Environmental Protection

The Coast Guard Auxiliary plays a vital role in promoting marine safety. Members are involved in various activities that ensure the safety of recreational boaters and commercial vessels. This includes conducting safety patrols, aiding in search and rescue operations, and providing safety checks for boats. The Auxiliary's efforts help minimize accidents and enhance overall safety on the water.


Marine Safety (DSO-MS) William Saltenberger. Marine Safety Page

Navigation Systems

Ensuring proper navigation standards is essential to maintaining safe waterways. The Coast Guard Auxiliary supports this by marking and maintaining navigational aids, such as buoys and beacons. They also conduct training sessions and workshops to educate boaters on best practices for navigation, thereby reducing the risk of collisions and other navigational hazards.


Navigation Systems (DSO-MS) John Frassanito. Navigation Systems Page

Member Training

The quality of the Coast Guard Auxiliary's services depends on the skills and knowledge of its members. As such, the organization places a strong emphasis on member training. This includes comprehensive programs covering various aspects of maritime operations, leadership development, and specialized skills. Training ensures that members are well-prepared to carry out their duties effectively and efficiently.


Member Training (DSO-MT) Karen Miller. Member Training Page

Public Education

Public education is a cornerstone of the Coast Guard Auxiliary's mission. Members provide educational programs to the community, focusing on boating safety, environmental stewardship, and emergency preparedness. These programs are designed to equip the public with the knowledge and skills needed to enjoy the water safely and responsibly.


Public Education (DSO-PE) Sean Hunt. Public Education Page

Vessel Exams

Vessel exams are an essential service provided by the Coast Guard Auxiliary. Members conduct free safety inspections of recreational boats to ensure compliance with federal regulations. These examinations cover various safety aspects, including the presence of life jackets, fire extinguishers, and proper registration. Passing a vessel exam can earn boaters a decal indicating their compliance with safety standards.


Vessel Examination (DSO-VE) Patti McGowan. Vessel Examination Page

Partner Visits

Building and maintaining strong relationships with partner organizations is crucial for the Coast Guard Auxiliary. Members conduct regular visits to local marinas, yacht clubs, and other maritime organizations to foster cooperation and collaboration. These visits help identify areas where the Auxiliary can provide support and share resources to enhance overall maritime safety.


Recreational Boating Safety Visitor (DSO-PV) Patrick McGowan. RBS Visitation Program Page

Aux Scout

The AuxScout program is a collaborative initiative between the US Coast Guard Auxiliary and the Boy Scouts of America. This program is designed to engage youth in activities that promote seamanship, maritime safety, and environmental stewardship. By fostering a sense of responsibility and knowledge of maritime operations, AuxScouts contribute to the broader mission of the Coast Guard Auxiliary. By leveraging the enthusiasm and dedication of youth, the AuxScout program not only educates the next generation of mariners but also contributes to the overall mission of the Coast Guard Auxiliary.


Auxscout (DSO-AS) Daniel Muelhaupt.

State Liaison

The Coast Guard Auxiliary serves as a vital link between the federal government and state agencies. Members work closely with state officials to coordinate efforts in maritime safety, environmental protection, and emergency response. This collaboration ensures that state and federal resources are effectively utilized to address maritime challenges and improve safety on the water.


State Liaison Coordinator (DSO-SL) Anda Ray. State Legislation Page

In conclusion, the Coast Guard Auxiliary's roles in marine safety, navigation systems, member training, public education, vessel exams, partner visits, state liaison and Aux Scouts are integral to its mission. Through these diverse and essential activities, the Auxiliary contributes significantly to the safety, security, and enjoyment of the nation's waterways.

Mission Focus: District Directorate Chief - Prevention

AS/MT/MS/NS/PE/VE/PV/SL

As the District Directorate - Prevention of the US Coast Guard Auxiliary, our mission is guided by a profound sense of pride in serving our Nation, a commitment to excellence, and the enduring camaraderie that binds us together. This mission focus seeks to encapsulate the core values and principles that drive our work and shape our vision for the future.

Pride in Serving the Nation

Our service to the Nation is at the heart of everything we do. Each day, we strive to uphold the highest standards of integrity, dedication, and patriotism. Our commitment to safeguarding our waters and supporting the Coast Guard's missions is a testament to our unwavering devotion to our country and its citizens.

Developing Community

A strong, cohesive community is essential for achieving our goals. We are dedicated to fostering an environment where every member feels valued, respected, and empowered. Through open communication, mutual support, and shared experiences, we build lasting relationships that enhance our collective strength and resilience.

Our Commitment to Excellence and Sense of Duty

Excellence is not merely a goal but a standard that we strive to exceed in all our endeavors. Our sense of duty compels us to continually improve, innovate, and lead by example. By honoring this commitment, we ensure that our actions reflect the highest levels of professionalism, competence, and ethical conduct.

Developing Unity

Camaraderie is the cornerstone of our success. The bonds we forge through teamwork, shared challenges, and mutual respect create a unified force capable of overcoming any obstacle. This spirit of camaraderie not only strengthens our organization but also enriches our experiences, making our service both fulfilling and rewarding. As we move forward, let us embrace these guiding principles with passion and determination. Together, we will continue to serve our Nation with pride, cultivate a vibrant community, uphold our commitment to excellence, and cherish the camaraderie that unites us. In doing so, we will honor our legacy and build a brighter future for the US Coast Guard Auxiliary.


DDC-P Bio

Daniel Helou is the District Directorate Chief - Prevention for District 7. He brings a wealth of experience and a proven track record of leadership since his early years as a member of the Auxiliary. As a 10 year member of Flotilla 72 in St. Petersburg, Daniel has excelled in various staff officer positions and has served with distinction as Flotilla Vice and Commander, Division Vice and Commander, and currently concluding his 2nd year as District Captain -West, where he served with distinction. His extensive involvement as a member of the EXCOM, reporting directly to the Commodore, underscores his dedication and commitment to our mission. At D-Train '24 Daniel was awarded the Presidential Lifetime Achievement Award for Volunteer Service.

Daniel is a motivational leader, known for his ability to inspire and energize those around him. His exceptional skills in listening and communication make him a brilliant and effective leader, ensuring that all voices are heard and valued. His unwavering dedication and innovative approach will be invaluable as we navigate the challenges and opportunities of the coming year. He is also a USCG Veteran, Icebreaker deployment, Operation Deep Freeze (Antarctica) and Operation Arctic East (Arctic Circle.)