Firefighter David Mott (left) and Jerry Helm in Marine 5 assist the crew of Beyond the Stars Monday off Harrington Lagoon. - Photo courtesy of Central Whidbey Fire and Rescue
Photo courtesy of Central Whidbey Fire and Rescue
Firefighter David Mott (left) and Jerry Helm in Marine 5 assist the crew of Beyond the Stars Monday off Harrington Lagoon.

Central Whidbey firefighters help boaters in distress


May 5, 2010 · Updated 11:41 AM 

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Central Whidbey Fire and Rescue responded to several emergency marine incidents as a result of wind storms that hit Whidbey Island early this week.

Just before noon Monday, firefighters responded a report of an overturned boat in heavy seas and high winds at Fort Casey.

The first units on scene determined the boat had reached Keystone harbor and its occupants, while having had a traumatic experience, were unharmed, according to a news release from the fire district.

Later Monday afternoon, firefighters responded to a request from the Stanwood/Camano Island Fire Department to assist with a marine rescue incident. The mast of a 41-foot sailboat broke and emergency personnel helped it reach safe refuge in Harrington Lagoon near Coupeville.

Then, on Tuesday, firefighters were called to two reports of boats that had broken loose from their moorings and run aground.

Boaters are encouraged to be aware of weather conditions and capabilities and limitations of their craft when taking to the water.

In addition to the four marine rescue incidents, firefighters from Central Whidbey Fire and Rescue responded to 13 other incidents May 3, including an automatic fire alarm, 10 calls for trees and wires down, and two medical emergencies.

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