29-foot Response Boat Small File Photo
WILMINGTON, N.C. — The Coast Guard rescued a snorkeler in distress near Bald Head Island, North Carolina, Saturday.
A woman aboard a 30-foot sailboat contacted watchstanders at Coast Guard Sector North Carolina’s command center at 6:13 p.m. via VHF-FM radio channel 16 and reported that a snorkeler from the boat, who was wearing a life jacket, became disoriented and drifted too far away.
Coast Guard Sector North Carolina launched a 29-foot Response Boat-Small crew from Coast Guard Station Oak Island to assist. The boat crew was able to quickly locate the man and safely recover him. There were no reported injuries.
“This is a great example of how wearing a life jacket and contacting the Coast Guard as soon as possible can save your life,” said Petty Officer 1st class Michelle Downing, watchstander during the case. “Accidents happen but there are steps you can take to increase chances of survival.”
