HOUSTON — A Coast Guard boat crew assisted two men when their boat stopped working near Morgan's Point, Sunday afternoon.
At approximately 11:45 a.m. the Vessel Traffic Service Houston-Galveston watchstanders received a distress call from a good Samaritan who was waved down by two men aboard an 18-foot boat sitting about 650 yards into the channel.
Coast Guard Sector Houston-Galveston watchstanders launched the 29-foot response boat crew from Coast Guard Station Houston at 12:45 p.m. which arrived on scene around 1:20 p.m. and took the boat in sidetow to Sylvan Beach.
“This is a great example of why it's so important to have an operational marine VHF radio," said Petty Officer 2nd Class Steven Klika, the on-scene boat coxswain. "Routinely maintenance your vessels and make sure it's in good working order. The biggest thing is having all the vessel requirements aboard, such as life jackets, an anchor and line, and flares if necessary."
Boaters are reminded to always check the weather forecast and prepare accordingly with appropriate personal protective equipment, always have enough life jackets for everyone aboard, have sufficient and appropriate medical supplies, always carry a marine VHF radio capable of calling for help and have a boating plan and communicate it with friends and family.