Successful Sailboat Rescue Near Plum Island
On December 1, the Orient Fire Department’s water rescue team successfully responded to a distress call involving a sailboat near Plum Island. The incident highlighted the importance of quick action and collaboration among rescue teams. With two passengers aboard, the situation could have turned critical without prompt assistance. Fortunately, the combined efforts of the fire department and the Cross Sound Ferry ensured that both individuals were safely brought back to shore without injury.
Quick Response to a Distress Call
The distress call came in early December, a time when marine activities are typically winding down. The Orient Fire Department’s water rescue team quickly mobilized to assist the sailboat in trouble. Upon arrival at Plum Gut, they found that the Cross Sound Ferry had already reached the scene. The ferry crew had successfully rescued one of the passengers, demonstrating the effectiveness of their swift response.
Rich Gillooly, the water rescue captain for the Orient Fire Department, provided insight into the rescue operation. He stated, “We got a call for a sailboat in distress in Plum Gut. When we responded, the Cross Sound Ferry had already located the boat and pulled up alongside.” This collaboration was crucial, as it allowed the fire department to focus on retrieving the second passenger. They worked efficiently to bring him aboard their rescue vessel and transported both individuals back to Orient.
The conditions at the time of the rescue posed challenges. The area around Plum Gut is known for its strong currents and rough seas, especially in December. However, the presence of the ferry provided some shelter from the waves, making the rescue operation more manageable. Gillooly noted that the seas were approximately five feet high, which could have complicated the situation significantly without the ferry’s assistance.
Challenges of Marine Rescues
Rescue operations in marine environments can be particularly challenging, especially during the winter months. The Orient Fire Department maintains two rescue boats, strategically located at the Orient Yacht Club and Duryea’s. However, this time of year typically sees these boats taken out of the water as marine recreation comes to an end. The timing of this incident underscores the importance of being prepared for unexpected emergencies, even when the boating season is winding down.
The nearest Coast Guard stations, located in New London and Montauk, are each about an hour away. This distance can be critical in emergencies, making local rescue teams even more vital. The Orient Fire Department’s quick response and effective teamwork with the Cross Sound Ferry exemplify how local resources can make a significant difference in emergency situations.
