TAMPA, FL. – Hillsborough County Sheriff’s Marine Unit rescued a father and son from the Tampa Bay waters on Wednesday.
At approximately 5:40 p.m. on Wednesday, Marine Units were deployed to an area just south of the Alafia River, and about a half-mile east of the shipping channel in Tampa Bay.
The caller, an off-duty Hillsborough County Fire Rescue firefighter, had seen a man in the water with his vessel, which was about to go underwater.
The two deputies located the adult male whose jet ski was sinking. Deputies cast a line to the man, who was assisted into the boat. He was wearing a life jacket. He notified deputies that his adult son was also on one of the nearby islands.
Minutes later, the son was located just north of Beer Can Island. He was also wearing his life jacket. Deputies were able to tow the jet ski to the ramp, and the men were safely returned to shore.
“I’m relieved and thankful that these two men were wearing their life jackets because we could be looking at a very different scenario today,” said Sheriff Chad Chronister. “Remember to always check the weather, wear a life jacket and of course, never drink and boat. With summer right around the corner, I also want to take this time to remind all boaters to make sure your vessel is up to standards before you and your loved ones enjoy our beautiful waterways. Safe boating is the only way to truly enjoy the perks of living and visiting Tampa Bay.”
Sheriff Chronister and the Marine Unit also want boaters to ensure that their vessels are mechanically sound, batteries are charged, and all necessary safety equipment is on board and up-to-date before heading out on the water.
National Safe Boating Week is coming up on May 22-28, 2021. For more information on safe boating tips, please visit https://safeboatingcampaign.com/.
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