Hunters Rescued after Vessel Grounds near N.J.

The U.S. Coast Guard rescued three people Tuesday who were stranded on Shelter Island, near Beach Haven after their 18-foot boat became grounded during a hunting trip.

A man used a cell phone to report he and two other people were stranded on the island after they were hunting and their boat grounded during low tide.

The men reported they were very cold despite being dressed appropriately for hunting in cold temperatures, but had no immediate medical concerns.

An MH-65 Dolphin helicopter crew from Coast Guard Air Station Atlantic City located and hoisted the three men. They were transported to the air station, where their care was transferred to awaiting emergency medical services personnel.

“They were about 15 miles away and we were there in seven minutes,” said Capt. Jeff Powell, a Royal Canadian Air Force pilot assigned to Coast Guard Air Station Atlantic City. “They were dressed well and had means of signaling. When they heard the helicopter, they used a flame to get our attention, which directed us to their exact location. Having any means to signal, whether a flashlight, flare or even a cell phone screen light, can greatly help a rescue crew at night.”

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