KODIAK,
AK – Four kayakers,
previously reported overdue, were located safe in Thumb Cove on the east
side of Resurrection Bay this afternoon by the tour boat Coastal
Explorer. Jimmy Ahern, of NakNek, Mason Hill, Robby Hilland Duke
Tibbetts of Anchorage were waiting for the wind to subside before attempting
to return to port.
Coast Guard aircraft and boats scoured
Resurrection Bay Sunday evening and early today searching for the four
people reported overdue Sunday evening from a trip to Bear Glacier.
The group left a float-plan with a
friend saying they would leave Lowell Point, near Seward, Friday morning
then paddle to Bear Glacier to return early Sunday afternoon. The friend
reported the group overdue to the Coast Guard at 8:50 p.m. after they
hadn’t returned.
The group has outdoor experience, but
minimal kayaking experience. The group has camping gear and enough
supplies to last the extra days. According to the Alaska Division of
Parks and Boating Safety, Kayakers are only required to carry a Coast
Guard approved life jacket onboard, if under the operator under the age
of 13 then the jacket must be worn. If the kayakers are operating at
night then they must have a night signaling device such as a waterproof
flashlight.
The Coast Guard would like to remind
all boaters that having the right equipment on board your vessel,
sometimes in excess of the minimum requirements, could keep minor
trouble from becoming a fight for survival. Kayakers should be
especially careful when operating in Alaska’s unpredictable waters.
The Coast Guard suggests that in
addition to a lifejacket, Kayakers should file a float plan with a
family member, friend or marina operator before leaving on their trip.
It is also suggested that you carry a communication device like a radio
or cell phone (if you are within its operating range) so you can call
for help. You can also call the person with your float plan and
make changes if you are unable to make it back at your scheduled time so
that costly searches can be avoided.
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