At least 15 People Rescued After Boat Began to Sink in Port A

Plenty was going on this past weekend. Fireworks, good food, and plenty of outdoor fun; however, the party ended early for one group in Port Aransas.

A CONCERNING CALL

According to the Aransas Pass Police Department, the APPD Harbor Safety and Enforcement received a concerning call the morning of July 4th.

A mayday call came in around 9:30 am after a boat carrying around 15 people began to sink. The boat had both adults and children aboard. 

STRUCK A UNMARKED PIPE

According to a post on social media, a person aboard the sinking Pensees claimed the vessel "hit an underwater pipe sticking up and tore a huge hole in the boat." The captain of the boat took quick action and took the right measures to ensure the boat would not sink before help arrived.

The coast guard was rushed out and safely rescued everyone. The boat has been patched up and is waiting for final repairs soon.

BOAT SAFETY

Summertime is a great time to go boating. However, it is extremely vital to make sure all safety precautions are taken. Here are some common items for your checklist before you take off on a boat:

• Life Jackets
  • Be sure you have a proper fitting for your size and weight.
• Tool kit
• First aid kit
• Don't drink and drive a boat
• If you notice storm clouds, a sudden temperature drop, or wind speed increasing, play it safe and get off the water

You can check out a detailed list of items and boating safety rules and tips, have fun and be safe this summer!