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Press Release | Oct. 12, 2024

Coast Guard rescues two after vessel begins taking on water

Coast Guard Seventh District - 305-781-6922

MIAMI - A Coast Guard Air Station Miami helicopter crew rescued two people, Friday, after their vessel began taking on water approximately 55 miles northeast of Key West.

The two people were brought to the Marathon airport with no reported medical concerns.

At approximately 4:15 p.m., Coast Guard Sector Key West watchstanders received a report of a 32-foot disabled vessel approximately 14 miles south of Marco Island. Upon further investigation, it was determined the vessel was approximately 55 miles northeast of Key West.

A Coast Guard Air Station Miami aircrew arrived on scene and located the two people clinging to the superstructure of the vessel before hoisting them.

"We encourage all mariners to routinely familiarize themselves with the navigation equipment aboard their vessel," said Petty Officer 1st Class Brian O'Neal, a Coast Guard Sector Key West watchstander. "The Coast Guard Auxiliary provides free training to those on a variety of safe boating techniques, including the use of maritime global positioning systems."

Click here for boating safety courses: https://cgaux.org/boatinged/

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-USCG-