Coast Guard rescues capsized kayaker in San Juan Islands

USCG release - SEATTLE — The Coast Guard rescued a 45-year-old man whose kayak capsized near Parker Reef in the San Juan Islands Friday morning. At 8:09 a.m., Coast Guard Northwest District command center watchstanders heard a mayday call on VHFChannel 16 from a kayaker, reporting that his kayak had capsized and he was in the water. His kayaking partner was able to remain upright and afloat. An MH-65 Dolphin helicopter aircrew from Air Station Port Angeles and a 45-foot Response Boat-Medium boatcrew from Station Bellingham were launched to assist. At 9:12 a.m., the Station Bellingham boatcrew arrived on scene and rescued the man from the water and recovered his kayak. He was taken to shore at Brandt’s Landing Marina and transferred to awaiting emergency medical services. His partner paddled safely to shore under his own power. "In cold water, every single second counts,” said Lt. Allison Ruth, command duty officer for Sector Puget Sound. This successful rescue was possible because the kayakers had dry suits, wore their life jackets, and used a VHF radio to call for help.“Their preparation gave our watchstanders and crews the critical tools needed to locate them and save a life." Weather conditions at the time of the search were 8 mph winds, 1-foot waves, 60-degree air temperature, and 54-degree water temperature.

Coast Guard hoists injured man from Hammond Marina jetty

USCG release - SEATTLE — The Coast Guard hoisted an injured man from the jetty at the Hammond Marina in Astoria, Oregon, Saturday. At 7:38 a.m., watchstanders at the Sector Columbia River command center received a request from the Warrenton Fire Department to assist with the rescue of a man who was pinned under a rock on the jetty at Hammond Marina. It was unsafe to evacuate him by foot due to the unstable terrain. An Air Station Astoria MH-60 Jayhawk helicopter crew launched and arrived on scene at 8:51 a.m. The Jayhawk crew successfully hoisted the man and transferred him to awaiting emergency medical services at Air Station Astoria at 9:55 a.m. He was taken to Columbia Memorial Hospital for further treatment. “Today showcased how the Coast Guard and local agencies work together to save lives,” said Chief Petty Officer Patrick Toomey, the command duty officer for Coast Guard Sector Columbia River. “Working with first responders on the ground, we were able to provide assistance and ensure the individual was transported for medical care.” Jetties and breakwaters are dangerous: surfaces are often slippery and uneven, unpredictable waves and changing tides can cause large boulders to shift, potentially leading to serious injury. The Coast Guard reminds everyone to remain vigilant on and around these structures and avoid walking on them whenever possible.