FIVE FISHERMEN RESCUED NEAR KODIAK

Hello Fishies!

Press release from the US Coast Guard:

KODIAK, Alaska - Five fishermen are safe after being rescued from their disabled vessel by the Coast Guard near Kodiak Island this afternoon in severe weather.

At 7:48 a.m., the 53-foot fishing vessel Risky Business notified Air Station Kodiak that their vessel was listing to port and they were heading to Kodiak. At about noon the Risky Business reported that they had a mechanical problem, were listing 30 degrees to port and were preparing to abandon ship.

A Coast Guard HH-60 Jayhawk helicopter was launched to assist the crew 69 miles east of Kodiak. The helicopter arrived as the vessel was forced on its port side by 20-foot seas and 50 mph winds. The crew was instructed to put on survival suits and enter the water. A basket was lowered and each crewmember was safely hoisted into the helicopter.

The captain and four crewmembers were returned to Kodiak where they were evaluated by emergency medical personnel and released.

The Kodiak based longliner was still partially afloat when the Coast Guard helicopter departed the scene.

The cause of the vessel's mechanical trouble is under investigation by Coast Guard Marine Safety Detachment Kodiak.

The Coast Guard reminds mariners to ensure they have all the necessary safety equipment onboard and that it is in good working condition. Mariners interested in a free fishing vessel safety exam should contact their local marine safety detachment.

KODIAK. Alaska - The crew of the 53-foot fishing vessel Risky Business prepares to abandon ship 69 miles east of Kodiak today after mecahnical problems and severe weather caused the ship to list to port and take on water. Official U.S. Coast Guard photo by Lt. Cmdr. Shawn Tripp.

KODIAK, Alaska - Crewmembers from the 53-foot fishing vessel Risky Business arrive at Coast Guard Air Station Kodiak after their vessel became disabled and began to sink in severe weather off Kodiak Island today. Official U.S. Coast Guard photo by Petty Officer 1st Class Kurt Fredrickson.

Stay tuned!

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