A red emergency flare helped the Caribbean Coast Guard locate and rescue a boater in distress near Sta. Cruz, Aruba, before towing the vessel to safety.
Emergency Flare Alerts a Person on Shore
The Sta. Cruz Coast Guard rescue began after a person on shore saw a red emergency flare over the water. NoticiaCla reported that the Caribbean Coast Guard received the alert about a man experiencing trouble with his boat near Sta. Cruz.
Maritime Operations Center Directs Search Aircraft
The Maritime Operations Center directed a Coast Guard aircraft to the area. The aircrew located the vessel and saw the boater signaling for assistance, allowing responders to confirm his position and coordinate the rescue.
Patrol Boat Tows Vessel to Sta. Cruz Bay
A Metal Shark patrol boat was sent to assist. The Coast Guard towed the disabled vessel to the bay at Sta. Cruz and brought the man to safety. The source did not report any injuries.
Coast Guard Stresses Safety Equipment
The Coast Guard said the flare was essential in drawing attention to the emergency. It recommends regular vessel maintenance and carrying life jackets, flares, drinking water, a first-aid kit and a reliable means of communication while boating.
