Flares used in rescue of teens without lifejackets
19/07/2023
Rescuers used flares to help pinpoint and save two teenagers, who were in the water without lifejackets after their boat engine failed.
Their 23-foot boat was stranded near Cutchogue, New York, one afternoon in July.
The strong current and winds pushed the 16-year-olds further away from the disabled vessel.
Police and fire marine units plus a US Coast Guard helicopter, searched for the teens and 911 dispatchers asked the boat operator to use flares to show where the swimmers were last spotted.
One swimmer was located more than three miles east of the boat and the other four miles from shore.
Both were exhausted but declined medical treatment. They were reunited with their parents.
Source and image credit: Cutchogue Fire Dept
