In fact, the Coast Guard's first encounter with Y2K came in January 1997 at the Coast Guard Institute. In our highly computer-dependent world, the year 2000 coding problem is found everywhere in computer software that run systems and in embedded chips that monitor systems. Because dependency on computer technology is spread across business, government, industry, education, and the private home, we are all vulnerable to the failure of the technology of others. If the Coast Guard has fixed its Y2K issues but electric utilities, telecommunications providers, DOD, or key suppliers have not, the Coast Guard's ability to carry out its missions may be hampered. An example that falls in the Coast Guard's sphere of influence is the external maritime community.
Modern ships carry multiple computerized systems and a vast number of embedded systems.
These include fire alarm and sprinkler systems, engine management and alarm systems, radar and navigation systems, cargo handling and tank control systems, and communication networks. Modern ports rely on computers to manage cargo terminal systems, equipment and traffic management systems. A Y2K failure of any component may affect the ability to safely move freight, bulk cargo or petroleum products through our ports. The Coast Guard is aggressively working with domestic maritime industry partners to ensure they identify and fix their Y2K issues, and has also published information in an International Maritime Organization circular. Our reliance on technology in a streamlined Coast Guard makes Y2K compliance a top Commandant priority.