PHILADELPHIA — The Coast Guard rescued two people Friday from a sinking vessel in Great Egg Harbor east of Somers Point, New Jersey.
Coast Guard Sector Delaware Bay watchstanders received a call from 911 dispatchers at approximately 11:30 a.m. that a 16-foot recreational boat was taking on water with two people aboard.
An MH-65 Dolphin helicopter aircrew from Coast Guard Air Station Atlantic City, New Jersey, was diverted from a training flight and arrived on scene approximately 20 minutes after the 911 call.
The helicopter crew spotted the boaters and lowered a rescue swimmer down to the water and hoisted the two men up.
"This case demonstrates the importance of having a reliable means of communication on your vessel," said Chief Warrant Officer Jacob Gerasimov, the command duty officer on duty at Air Station Atlantic City. "These mariners were able to contact 911 using their cell phone, but cell phones can often be unreliable on the water. By ensuring you have a VHF-FM radio, you greatly increase your likelihood of contacting assistance in the time of distress."
No injuries were reported.