Lake Michigan, one of the Great Lakes, is a popular destination for boating and water sports. However, accidents can occur, and timely rescue operations are crucial. Here, we delve into the typical response time for boat rescues on Lake Michigan, how authorities communicate with vessels in distress, and the role of civilian boats in responding to distress calls.
Typical Response Time for Boat Rescues on Lake Michigan
The response time for boat rescues on Lake Michigan can vary depending on several factors such as the location of the incident, weather conditions, and the availability of rescue resources. In a recent incident, the Kenosha Fire Department responded to a vessel taking on water six miles out on Lake Michigan. The response time was not specified, but the authorities were able to reach out to civilian boats for assistance due to the unavailability of immediate Coast Guard response.
Communication with Vessels in Distress
Authorities use ‘Marine Channel 16,’ an international distress frequency, to communicate with vessels in distress. This VHF radio frequency is designated for emergency situations and is recommended for all vessels to monitor while underway. In the Kenosha incident, authorities used this channel to reach out to civilian boats for help.
Role of Civilian Boats in Responding to Distress Calls
Civilian boats play a crucial role in responding to distress calls on Lake Michigan. In the Kenosha incident, two civilian vessels, “Weekend At Bernie’s” and “Anger Management,” answered the distress call and helped rescue the people on board the vessel in distress. The Kenosha Fire Department publicly thanked the captains of these boats for their willingness to ensure the safety of those on board.
Additional Insights
- In a separate incident, a fishing boat capsized near Port Washington, resulting in two fatalities and one survivor. The survivor was wearing a life jacket, highlighting the importance of safety gear.
- In another incident, six friends sailing on Lake Michigan were rescued after their boat started sinking. They were able to bail water and wear life jackets, which significantly improved their chances of survival.
References
- Fox6Now. (2024, July 18). Lake Michigan vessel in distress, civilian boats from Kenosha respond. Retrieved from https://www.fox6now.com/news/vessel-distress-lake-michigan-kenosha
- JSONLine. (2024, July 30). Names released, boat found from July 15 capsizing in Lake Michigan. Retrieved from https://eu.jsonline.com/story/communities/north/2024/07/30/boat-capsize-in-lake-michigan-near-port-washington-found-17-foot-fishing-boat-overturns-in-lake-mich/74600716007/
- Safe Boating Campaign. (n.d.). 6 Boaters Rescued from Sinking Vessel on Lake Michigan. Retrieved from https://safeboatingcampaign.com/life-jackets/stories/we-wouldnt-have-made-it-6-boaters-rescued-from-sinking-vessel-on-lake-michigan/.