Coast Guard Heroically Rescues Stranded Family After Boat Fire Near Cape Cod Leaving One in Severe Condition
A dramatic rescue unfolded on Naushon Island near Cape Cod when the Coast Guard successfully saved a family of three stranded after their boat caught fire. The incident left one family member in serious condition, while the others suffered minor injuries.
Rescue Operation Details
The time of distress began on a Wednesday morning when a mayday call was received at 7:09 a.m. The family had been stranded on the island for over 30 hours and had to swim to shore following the boat fire.
- Date of Incident: The family started their journey on Friday and their boat caught fire on Monday night.
- Location: Naushon Island, part of the Elizabeth Islands chain.
- Hospitalization: The family was airlifted to Cape Cod Gateway Airport and then taken to Cape Cod Hospital.
Key Events
The Coast Guard, after being alerted by a concerned relative, initiated an extensive search. The Falmouth Police department assisted in locating the missing vessel. Harbormaster Gregg Fraser confirmed that the announcement of the vessel being overdue came late Tuesday night.
Interestingly, the family was able to re-establish contact with the Coast Guard after their son discovered the boat’s marine radio washed up on the beach. By 8:30 a.m. on Wednesday, the Coast Guard helicopter landed on Naushon Island.
Health and Safety Information
- Injuries: One family member was hospitalized in severe condition due to smoke inhalation and burns.
- Rescue Team: Volunteers from the Naushon Trust were among the first to provide first aid.
Upon reaching safety, the family was airlifted and arrived at Cape Cod Gateway Airport at 9:13 a.m., where they received further medical care.
Naushon Island Overview
Naushon Island is the largest island in the Elizabeth Islands chain, situated discreetly between Buzzards Bay and Martha’s Vineyard. While officially part of the town of Gosnold, which has the lowest population in Massachusetts, the island remains privately owned, with limited public access.
The heroism of the Coast Guard and the timely response by volunteers played a crucial role in ensuring the safe recovery of the stranded family, underlining the importance of maritime safety and emergency preparedness.
