Coast Guard rescues 4 boaters off coast of Charleston, S.C.

CHARLESTON, S.C. - A 41-foot rescue boat crew from Coast Guard Station Charleston rescued 4 boaters shortly after 5 p.m., Sunday, approximately 15-miles east of Charleston Harbor.

The Coast Guard was notified of a maritime distress signal off the coast of Charleston Harbor at 4:06 p.m. via a Personal Position Indicating Radio Beacon or PPIRB. An HH-65 Dolphin rescue helicopter crew from Air Facility Charleston responded to the location of the distress signal and located 4 boaters aboard a 23-foot recreational boat taking on water. The 41-foot rescue boat crew from Station Charleston arrived on scene shortly thereafter and removed all 4 passengers at about 5:08 p.m. Sunday.

In addition, the rescue boat crew successfully located and patched the hole taking on water and placed the disabled boat in tow. The crew and passengers are currently en-route to Charleston Harbor.

This rescue illustrates the vital importance of safety equipment for all seasoned and recreational boaters. The Coast Guard recommends the use of a registered EPIRB, PPIRB, fully functioning marine band radio and proper use of life jackets. For further information on available lifesaving equipment, please click here to visit the Coast Guard's Boating Safety website.

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