The Coast Guard, along with several local agencies rescued three individuals after their boat caught fire Friday, near Rancho Palos Verdes. U.S. Coast Guard photo by Petty officer 2nd Class Philip Gilbert, Station Los Angeles.
LOS ANGELES — The Coast Guard, along with several local agencies rescued three individuals after their boat caught fire Friday, near Rancho Palos Verdes.
The Coast Guard received a may day call via VHF radio ch 16 from the 44-foot sailing vessel, Laetitia, reporting that the vessel's engine had caught fire and began to spread with three people aboard. All passengers were directed to put on life jackets while resources were en route and move to the bow of the boat to keep away from the fire.
The Coast Guard immediately launched a 45-foot Response Boat —Medium crew from Coast Guard Station Los Angeles-Long Beach and the Coast Guard Cutter Blacktip, an 87-foot patrol boat, homeported in Channel Islands Harbor to assist in the rescue. A Los Angeles City Fire Department boat crew, a Los Angeles County Lifeguard boat crew, four Baywatch vessels and a Los Angeles County Fire Department helicopter crew also assisted in the rescue.
At 3:30 p.m., one boater in distress jumped in the water and was quickly and safely picked up by the Los Angeles County Lifeguards. The Coast Guard small boat crew safely transferred the other two individuals to Blacktip. One passenger was reported to have minor burns on their hands, the other two boaters were reported to be in good condition. All three individuals will be taken to Marina Del Ray.
The Coast Guard urges mariners to always:
Stay Informed – The public should be aware of weather conditions and monitor the progress and strength of currents through local television, radio and internet. Check the current and expected weather and water conditions before heading out, and be aware that weather conditions can quickly change.
Wear life jackets while on the water.
File a float plan with friends, family members and local marinas before heading out. The list should include the number of passengers aboard the vessel, vessel's destination and expected time of return.
Always have a working marine-band radio on board.
Carry marine flares on board the vessel.
Ensure bilge pumps are operational and vessels are secure for heavy winds and rain.
For more information on boating safety, visit www.uscgboating.org.
Please visit the NOAA Website at www.noaa.gov for the most up to date information on weather broadcasts and current storm advisories.
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