 April 21, 2008
Derbin and Susan Hobbs were aboard a 16-foot white Bay Runner that departed Whitier Saturday for a shrimp fishing trip. When they didn't return as scheduled a concerned individual notified the Coast Guard. A HH-60 Jayhawk helicopter was launched from Air Station Kodiak just after 4 p.m. Sunday to search for an overdue vessel in Cochrane Bay. The couple, Derbin and Susan Hobbs, was located on Esther Island, north east of Whittier. The Coast Guard found the vessel and located the couple on a nearby beach. The air crew hoisted the couple to the helicopter and found them to be in stable condition. The Coast Guard helicopter transported them to the Whittier Airport where they were picked up by local EMS. The couple suffered no injuries. The Coast Guard recommends that all boaters file a float plan before heading out on the water. A float plan contains valuable information that can greatly reduce search times by narrowing a search to a specific area. Float plans note departure and expected return times, number and ages of people on board and vessel description. A float plan should be left with a responsible party. The Coast Guard encourages boaters to enjoy their time on the water, but to remember that they are in command of boat responsibly, and that a float plan can help take the search out of search and rescue.
On the Web:
Source of News:
Publish A Letter in SitNews Read Letters/Opinions
|