DATE: November 22, 2009 17:47:52 EST

US COAST GUARD

News Release

Date:
Nov. 2, 2009
 

Contact:
Petty Officer 1st Class Christopher Evanson
(305) 415-6683

*Update - mayday audio included*
Coast Guard  rescues boater following collision with jetty in Charleston Harbor

Click here to listen to audio from the initial distress call.

CHARLESTON, S.C. - The Coast Guard and local rescue crews rescued an injured boater from a 34-foot catamaran following a collision with the Charleston Harbor North Jetty Sunday morning.

Rescued was Kenneth Bear.

The Coast Guard was initially notified of the jetty collision at about 1:18 a.m. when Bear made a maritime distress call via VHF Channel 16.  

A Coast Guard Air Facility Charleston HH-65 Dolphin helicopter rescue crew hoisted Bear at approximately 2:38 a.m. and transported him to the Medical University of South Carolina. Also responding was a 25-foot rescue boat crew from Coast Guard Station Charleston and a boat crew from Charleston County Rescue. 

In the event of a maritime emergency, the use of a float plan, VHF channel 16, life jackets and an Emergency Position Indicating Radio Beacon greatly enhances survival. 

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Saving Lives and Guarding the Coast Since 1790.

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