Early Saturday morning, a 15-foot boat capsized near the Sunshine Skyway Bridge, prompting a swift rescue operation by local agencies. The US Coast Guard, alerted by a 911 transfer at 7:34 a.m., worked in tandem with St. Petersburg Fire Rescue and the Pinellas County Sheriff’s Office to respond to the distressed boater. Within a mere 22 minutes, the Coast Guard crew managed to retrieve the individual from the water, as reported by WFLA.
The man was subsequently transported to the Maximo Boat Ramp by the St. Petersburg Fire Rescue boat crew, and, fortunately, he sustained no injuries during the ordeal. Petty Officer 1st Class Joseph Catell highlighted the role of preparedness, stating to WTSP, “Sharing his float plan with his wife and coordination between partner agencies helped save this man’s life.”
This incident serves as a timely reminder with the National Safe Boating Week just around the corner, occurring from Saturday to next Friday. Boaters are urged to brush up on their safety skills and ensure they are prepared for any emergency situations that might arise on the water…