Here’s another story that highlights the dedication and professionalism of the U.S. Coast Guard and the importance for all sailors to make sure their emergency signaling devices are properly registered.
At the end of January, two men sailing aboard the 32-foot Walrus 100 miles east of Wilmington, North Carolina, found themselves in distress as their boat started taking on water. Their pumps could not keep up with the flooding, so the decision was taken to call for assistance.
The men switched on their EPIRB, hit the distress button on their VHF with Digital Selective Calling (DSC) and hit the emergency button on a satellite communications device such as an InReach or an Iridium Go. With three discreet emergency calling devices all activated, their cry for help was almost certainly going to be heard and their position broadcast with pinpoint accuracy.
The Coast Guard at Air Station Elizabeth City was alerted of the distress call and launched both a C-130 aircraft and a Jayhawk helicopter. The C-130 was first to arrive at the Walrus and dropped a large pump to the men. While the new pump helped with dewatering the boat, the men onboard and the CG crews determined that they were still in a serious situation and need to be airlifted.
The Jayhawk arrived soon after the pump had been dropped. The decision was made so the rescue swimmer dropped into the water. The two men were hoisted to the helicopter and transported 100 miles back to dry land. Both men arrived in stable condition and without injuries. The Walrus was abandoned at sea and was destined to sink.
The Salvation Army Wilmington, NC – Harrelson Center provided clothing for the survivors, while Modern Aviation/FBO arranged transportation to the main terminal at Wilmington Airport to assist with their journey home.
In the aftermath of the rescue, Lieutenant Sheena Bannon, a search and rescue coordinator for Coast Guard District Five, commented, “”This rescue highlights the critical importance of properly registered communication equipment. The mariners’ VHF radio with Digital Selective Calling, their Emergency Position Indicating Radio Beacon, and SENDs device allowed us to respond quickly. By ensuring their equipment was registered, we had precise distress information, enabling a timely and successful rescue. I cannot stress enough how essential it is for all mariners to register their communications gear to improve safety on the water.”
