‘Miracle’ rescue thanks to flare
22/08/2024
Seven fishermen have been involved in a ‘miracle’ rescue by a Canadian search and rescuers who spotted their last flare.
The crew of the Elite Navigator from Newfoundland took to a life raft when their boat caught fire around 300 kilometres northeast of Gander one day in July. A major fog bank hampered the rescue.
The crew had limited water and huddled together for warmth. After two days, they had given up hope. However, a helicopter search team spotted their last flare and rescued the crew.
They were transferred on to CCGS Teleost and welcomed home by cheering crowds in boats and on the docks at Valleyfield, in New-Wes-Valley. Mayor Michael Tiller says the event is nothing short of a miracle.
The Canadian Coast Guard spokesperson says, “A handheld red flare was spotted, which led us to a life-raft.”
Four Coast Guard vessels, a Cormorant helicopter and Hercules aircraft crews helped in the search. PAL Airlines also used sensors in flyovers to try to locate the boat, and several fishing vessels also joined in.
Newfoundland Premier Andrew Furey says, “Our entire province is so relieved to hear the crew members of the Elite Navigator have been found and are returning to safety to their families, who have been waiting so anxiously for this good news. Thank you to all the dedicated people involved in the search and rescue effort.”
Source: Canadian Coast Guard, Andrew Furey and CBC. The image of Teleoast is from the Canadian Coast Guard.
