Multiple Agencies Rescue Stranded Boater in Deal Island Area
SOMERSET COUNTY, Md. – The Maryland Natural Resources Police (NRP), Somerset County Emergency Medical Services (EMS), and Maryland State Police (MSP) Aviation teamed up on Friday afternoon to rescue a stranded boater.
At 12:08 p.m. on Friday, Apr. 17, NRP officers responded to a call for assistance from a disabled boater in the Deal Island Wildlife Management Area near Fishing Creek. The boater, a 72-year-old man, reported that he had run aground in a jon boat and was unable to free himself. NRP officers, along with Somerset County EMS personnel, deployed a patrol vessel and located the individual within 45 minutes.
Upon making contact, responders determined that the man was dependent on oxygen and had exhausted his supply. Due to this medical concern, the MSP Aviation Command was requested to assist with transport. NRP say the individual was safely flown to TidalHealth Peninsula Regional in Salisbury for precautionary evaluation.
Boaters in need of emergency response on the water should call VHF radio channel 16 or dial 911 if within cell phone range.
