NEW ORLEANS – The Coast Guard rescued three people from a disabled boat south of Hopedale, Louisiana, Saturday.
Watchstanders at Coast Guard Sector New Orleans received a report at 6:15 p.m. on Friday of a disabled 18-foot recreational boat with three people aboard in Seven Dollar Bay.
Sector watchstanders directed the launch of an MH-65 Dolphin helicopter crew from Coast Guard Air Station New Orleans to rescue the people.
The helicopter crew arrived on scene, hoisted the three people and transferred them to University Medical Center New Orleans in stable condition.
“The three people were able to call for help because they had a working VHF radio aboard their vessel,” said Lt. Cmdr. Brian Ward, an aircraft commander from Coast Guard Air Station New Orleans. “If you’re going out on the water, be prepared. Boating safety equipment, including a VHF-radio, could potentially save your life.”
U.S. Coast Guard photo by Petty Officer 3rd Class Brandon Giles (archive).
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