Tuesday, July 17, 2018

Alaska Coast Guard Rescues 13-Year-Old

By Karen Robes Meeks

A 13-year-old girl was rescued last Tuesday on Kruzof Island in Alaska’s Shelikof Bay by the US Coast Guard Air Station Sitka Jayhawk helicopter crew.

The girl’s aunt and uncle notified authorities after they did not see her kayaking in Shelikof Bay. Coast Guard Sector Juneau watchstanders diverted the helicopter crew to help in the search.

The kayak was spotted on the shore and the crew found the girl on some rocks before hoisting and returning her to her family at North Beach on Kruzof Island, according to the Coast Guard.

"Even on a beautiful day the water temperature can be life threatening,” said Lt. Mick Klakring, one of the Jayhawk pilots on the case. “Thankfully this young lady was wearing a life jacket, which may have made the difference in the outcome. We are very happy we could find her and relocate her with family staying at Shelikof Bay to enjoy the Fourth of July."

According to the Coast Guard, those using paddle crafts should wear a life jacket, dress for the water temperature, take a personal locator beacon, a satellite or cell phone and file a float plan with friends and family in case of emergency.