BAYPORT, Fla. — Two boaters were left with burn injuries after their vessel experienced mechanical issues Sunday in the Gulf waters off Bayport Park, Hernando County Fire Rescue (HCFR) said in a Facebook post.
HCFR Marine 6 responded to the vessel from Hernando Beach, Fire Rescue said. Both victims were reportedly given ALS medical care while returning to the park's boat ramp before they were taken to the hospital.
The Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission (FWC) is taking care of the stranded boat, Fire Rescue said.
Safety procedures for stranded/distressed boaters
Anyone who finds themselves stranded or distressed on a boat should practice the following procedures, according to Boat Ed.
During the day
- The orange distress flag is the international symbol of distress on water, according to Boat Ed. Place the flag as high as possible on your boat to help other boaters see your call for help from several miles away.
- Hand-held orange smoke flares are more effective than red flares for daytime use. Orange smoke lingers in the air and will help other boaters see your request for assistance.
During nighttime
- Electric signal lights can display bright signal lighting for an extended period and can be affixed to the boat in the same way as an orange distress flag, according to Boat Ed.
- Red flares are also useful at nighttime and usually burn for about six seconds, which is enough time for other boaters to see your call for distress
For more safety procedures and protocols, click here.
