Jun 14th, 2016
SAN DIEGO — The Coast Guard rescued three sailors 150 miles west of Los Angeles, after their sailboat began taking on water, Monday. At 6:51 p.m., Monday, watchstanders at Coast Guard Sector Los Angeles-Long Beach received a call from the broker of the 45-foot sailing vessel Locomotion, reporting that the rudder had broken, the vessel was taking on water and the three-person crew was unable to keep up with with the flooding. The crew deployed their life raft and activated their EPIRB as a precaution.
A Coast Guard Sector San Diego MH-60 Jayhawk helicopter crew and the Coast Guard Cutter Narwhal were immediately launched to assist. Due to the distance from shore, a Coast Guard Air Station Sacramento HC-130 Hercules aircraft was also launched to provide additional radio communications and oversight of the rescue.
The Jayhawk crew arrived on scene at approximately 10:30 p.m., and safely hoisted all three sailors; a 41 year-old man, 56 year-old man and 61 year-old female.
They were transported to San Diego and arrived at 11 p.m., with no medical concerns.
The sailing vessel had recently been purchased and was en route from Hawaii to Newport Beach, California.
The Coast Guard urges mariners to always:
Stay Informed – The public should be aware of weather conditions and monitor the progress and strength of the storm 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, 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.