Choppy waters couldn't keep the San Francisco Fire Department and the U.S. Coast Guard from their lifesaving mission Sunday night. Two boaters are back on dry land thanks to a dramatic rescue operation outside the Golden Gate Bridge. SF Fire reported the incident on social media, stating that initial distress calls came through when a boat carrying one or two individuals began taking on water, losing all radio communication. According to an X post from the San Francisco Fire Department, the scramble to locate and save the distressed boaters became urgent as the sea conditions grew increasingly perilous.
UPDATE
— SAN FRANCISCO FIRE DEPARTMENT MEDIA (@SFFDPIO) February 12, 2024
USCG SFFD RESCUE UNITS AND AIR UNITS DISPATCHED- THIS IS A SEARCH AND RESCUE FOR A VESSEL TAKING ON WATER WITH LOST POWER https://t.co/Ja7WfyYm01
The trouble began before 8 p.m. when search and rescue units were deployed upon receiving reports of a distressed vessel. Both sea and air units were dispatched as part of the effort. The SFFD informed the public via social media, noting that large waves and hazardous surf presented formidable challenges for the rescuers. Despite these obstacles, the team maintained its resolve. "Radio contact with the vessel had been re-established," the fire department disclosed in an update.
It was approximately 8:20 p.m. when the tide of fortune turned for the stranded boaters. Both adults were located and found to be 'OKAY,' partially thanks to the quick thinking of the vessel's captain, according to a statement obtained by Patch. The operation, which hinged on the coordinated efforts of the San Francisco Fire Department's rescue boat and the Coast Guard, ultimately culminated in a successful rescue.
The boaters were secured, and their beleaguered boat is now being towed following the scary ordeal.
