By Karen Robes Meeks
Three hunters were rescued by the US Coast Guard on the south side of Chenega Island in Prince William Sound in Alaska on New Year’s Day.
A Coast Guard MH-60 Jayhawk rescue helicopter crew found the three hunters’ 20-foot vessel and a flag on the beach and were able to take them to Seward, Alaska.
According to the Coast Guard, the men, who were three days overdue, had no medical issues and apparently survived on kelp and water while taking shelter in a cabin they found on the island as they waited for help.
“Starting the New Year with a positive outcome to a difficult case is all we can really ask for," said Michael McNeil, Coast Guard Sector Anchorage command duty officer. “Our crews were able to brave the terrible weather, overcome lack of information as to where these men could be, and safely get them back to their family and community.”
The Coast Guard encourages mariners to always be prepared by having marine flares, and operational bilge pumps, wearing life jackets, keeping a marine-band radio on board as well as filing a float plan with family, friends and local marinas before departing. The list should have information about the number of passengers, the destination and when the vessel is expected to return.
