PASCO COUNTY, Fla. — Crews with U.S. Coast Guard Southeast rescued three people 30 miles off the coast of Anclote Key Saturday in Pasco County.
In an X post, the Coast Guard said the three called for help after their 21-foot boat started taking on water and capsized.
Crews said they were able to bring the three survivors to shore "in good condition."
Safety procedures for stranded boaters
Anyone who finds themselves stranded 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.
