Crime & Safety

Coast Guard Rescues 3 Men In Sinking Boat Near St. Pete Pier

The boaters used red flares to signal an alert for help as their boat took on water. The Coast Guard stressed the importance of boat safety.

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Before heading out for recreational boating, the Coast Guard said it is important for all boaters to be familiar with the safety equipment on a boat.
Before heading out for recreational boating, the Coast Guard said it is important for all boaters to be familiar with the safety equipment on a boat. (Photo Courtesy of the U.S. Coast Guard District 7 )

ST. PETERSBURG, FL — The Coast Guard rescued three people from a sinking boat near the St. Petersburg Pier Saturday, according to a news release.

Coast Guard Station St. Petersburg launched a response boat after 911 dispatch relayed the emergency information to watch standers at USCG Sector St. Petersburg. The boaters used red flares as an alert signal to their boating issue of taking on water.

“When you’re getting ready to launch, ensure all safety equipment is on board and working properly,” said Cmdr. Shawn Lansing, Sector St. Petersburg deputy commander. “Also, make sure to familiarize everyone with the equipment.”

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The Coast Guard boat crew took the men to Station St. Petersburg to be checked over by medical personnel for injuries. The boaters were unscathed, according to the Coast Guard.

For more boating safety tips, visit USCG boating safety.

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