MIAMI – Coast Guard crews say they helped rescue a 71-year-old man from his canoe at 12 am Friday near Pavilion Key.
According to the Coast Guard, watch standers at Sector Key West had received a phone call from a 911 dispatcher who said another boater in a canoe saw, then lost sight of, a man making signs with a flash light.
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An MH65 Dolphin helicopter crew from Coast Guard Air Station Miami arrived at the scene and found the man. The Coast Guard said he was signaling the aircrew for help.
"It's important that boaters remember that wearing and maintaining safety equipment like life jackets and personal electronic position indicating radio beacons, cannot only save your life, but expedite your rescue," said Capt. Chris Scraba, Coast Guard Sector Miami commander.
The crew said they hoisted the man aboard and brought him to Naples Airport. Coast Guard said the man was evaluated by emergency medical service technicians.