Office of Public Affairs
U.S. Coast Guard Seventeenth District
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News Release Date: May 22, 2009
Contact: Petty Officer Kurt Fredrickson 
Phone: (907) 487-5700

Boaters rescued near Seldovia, Alaska, recommended safety equipment aboard 

KODIAK, Alaska - Five Adults and one child were rescued by a good Samaritan Near Seldovia, Alaska after their 22-foot recreational boat became disabled Thursday.

As National Safe Boating Week comes to an end, this case highlights the importance of being prepared while boating in Alaska.  The vessel lost its starter and outboard engine between Seldovia Harbor and Point Pogibishi, Alaska.  Although disabled and adrift, the vessel was equipped with all the safety equipment recommended by the Coast Guard.

At 8:25 p.m. the Coast Guard Cutter Hickory heard a distress call from the operator of the Dosokies on their VHF radio.  The vessel had five adults and one 13-year-old girl aboard.

The Dosokies reported to the Coast Guard it was equipped with personal floatation devices, flares and an emergency position indicating radio beacon, as well as plenty of food and water.  At 9:51 p.m., a 28 foot vessel responded to the distress call and towed the vessel to Seldovia.

"This case was a perfect example of how to be prepared for safety on the water," said Petty Officer 1st Class Jeremiah Mims, Coast Guard Sector Anchorage operational controller.  "Other boaters should look at this incident and ask themselves if their boat is safe and ready to head out this season.  If not, they should consider the potential consequences.  From the Coast Guard's perspective, safety equipment can prevent a rescue from being necessary.  That allows our assets to be available for others in need."

Accidents in Alaska can happen suddenly and without warning in all weather conditions.  The Coast Guard would like to remind boaters to carry all recommended safety equipment in addition to that which is required.

Boaters are reminded that survival in Alaska does not end when you reach shore.  Much of Alaska is remote and mariners should be prepared to survive at sea as well as ashore while awaiting rescue.

For more information on boating safety visit www.safeboatingcampaign.com or www.uscgboating.org.  

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