NEW YORK – The Coast Guard responded to a report of a vessel taking on water in Raritan Bay, New Jersey, May 23, 2015.
At approximately 6:28 p.m., watchstanders at Coast Guard Sector New York Command Center in Staten Island, New York, received reports of a vessel with three people aboard taking on water in Raritan Bay, New Jersey.
Coast Guard Cutter Ridley was diverted, and Coast Guard Station Sandy Hook launched a rescue boatcrew and quickly arrived on scene with the vessel at approximately 6:52 p.m.
The Ridley launched a rescue boatcrew and safely removed the three people aboard from the distressed vessel.
The Ridley boatcrew then transported the three people to the Atlantic Highland Marina, New Jersey.
A commercial tow company has been contracted for further assistance.
All persons aboard were wearing life jackets and no injuries or pollution have been reported.
“Not every rescue attempt we face is the same,” said Petty Officer 2nd Class Spencer Hinman, of Station Sandy Hook. “Having the proper safety equipment is a common factor that aids us in the life-saving process. A personal floatation device (PFD) for every person on board is a must. We suggest you go one-step further and wear your PFD at all times when boating. It is much more difficult to locate, access, or don a PFD at the moment the accident occurs, so by wearing your PFD you can help eliminate a step during a potentially life saving process.”
For more information on boating safety, go to the Boating Safety Resource Center at http://www.uscgboating.org.