JACKSONVILLE, Fla. – The Coast Guard rescued three boaters after their vessel ran aground two-miles east of the Nassau Sound Entrance, Tuesday.
Rescued were: Stanley Thompson, 45, Charles Powell, 63, and Justo Emmuelo, 45.
Operational watchstanders at Coast Guard Sector Jacksonville received report from the crew of the fishing vessel Atlantic Breeze via VHF-FM marine radio channel 16 at approximately 6:50 p.m., Tuesday that their vessel was taking on water due to running aground.
Coast Guard Station Mayport, Fla., launched a 45-foot rescue boat crew and arrived on scene at approximately 7:54 p.m.
Crewmembers safetly transferred the three boaters onto the rescue boat and transported them to Coast Guard Station Mayport, Fla.
No injuries were reported and all three boaters were equipped with lifejackets.
All mariners are encouraged to invest in a VHF-FM marine-band radio as their primary means of communication on the water. VHF-FM marine-band radios are far more reliable than cells phones in the marine environment. VHF-FM Channel 16, the international hailing and distress channel, is monitored by the Coast Guard and state marine patrols around the clock. In addition, distress calls broadcast over VHF-FM Channel 16 will be heard by all mariners in the vicinity. Urgent safety information and weather reports for boaters are also broadcast over marine band radio channels.
To learn more about safe boating practices please visit http://www.uscgboating.org/
