Please RSVP no later than 10 a.m., Nov. 20 to PA1 Nicole J Groll, Coast Guard Public Affairs Detachment Tampa Bay at 305-607-6347.
Boat ramp for pick up: Centennial Park boat ramp
SARASOTA, Fla. - Coast Guard and Sarasota County Fire Department crews are scheduled to conduct joint rescue operations, Monday, off Sarasota.
We are inviting no more than 10 journalists to ride on a Coast Guard 45-foot rescue boat to watch helicopter hoist operations between Sarasota Fire Department, Coast Guard Station Cortez and Air Station Clearwater.
WHO: Coast Guard Station Cortez, 45-foot rescue boat medium crew, Air Station Clearwater MH-60 Jayhawk aircrew, and Sarasota Fire Department marine crew
WHAT: Coast Guard and Sarasota Fire Department helicopter hoist operations. A member from Sarasota Fire Department and Coast Guard will be available to answer questions.
WHERE: Media is asked to be at Centennial Park boat ramp by 12:15 p.m., Nov. 20. The boat is leaving at 12:30 p.m. (click the link for location)
WHEN: Nov. 20, 2023, 12:15 p.m.
There is not a lot of maneuverability aboard the vessel, we are asking media to bring what is necessary to capture the imagery, such as GoPros or more compact video cameras. There will not be room for multiple tripods. Drones cannot be used to capture imagery due to the risk to the helicopter crew. Wear closed toe shoes and clothing to be on the water.
Please RSVP to Petty Officer Nicole J Groll, Coast Guard Public Affairs Detachment Tampa Bay, with your name and media outlet no later than 10 a.m., Monday, Nov. 20 at 305-607-6347.
Safety reminders for residents and visitors while on the water:
- Drink plenty of water, apply sunscreen and take breaks in the shade and air conditioning throughout the day to avoid heat-related illness.
- Always swim near a lifeguard. Sarasota County has six lifeguarded beaches. Always keep a watchful eye on your family and friends while enjoying our beautiful beaches and waterways.
- Break the Grip of the Rip: If you’re caught in a rip current, swim parallel to shore until you are out of the pull of the current. If you need help, call out or signal to the lifeguard.
- Don't drink and boat!