
The Coast Guard Air crews must conduct rigorous training to maintain proficiencies and prepare for the myriad of scenarios they could encounter.
U.S. Coast Guard photo by Petty Officer 1st Class Lisa Ferdinando.
ST. PETERSBURG, Fla.— A Coast Guard Air Station Clearwater MH-60T Jayhawk helicopter aircrew rescue two people and their cat aboard a 35-foot sailing vessel taking on water 34 nautical miles off Sarasota, Monday.
The Canadian father and son, and their pet were safely returned to Air Station Clearwater and reported in good health.
The Coast Guard District Seven watchstanders received a registered 406MHz EPIRB (Emergency Position Indicating Radio Beacon) alert Monday morning. The MH-60T Jayhawk Medium-Range Recovery Helicopter (MRR) aircrew arrived and found the sailing vessel demasted and taking on water.
The Coast Guard reminds all boaters of these important safety tips while on the water: wear a life jacket, carry all required safety gear, use your engine cut-off device, file a float plan, and check the weather and water conditions before getting on the water.

The Coast Guard crew members train daily to ensure they are ready for a multitude of emergency situations.
U.S. Coast Guard photo by Petty Officer 1st Class Michael De Nyse.
For more boating safety tips, click here.
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