FDNY and Coast Guard Rescue Jet Skiers After 12-Hour Ordeal Off Staten Island

Jet Skiers Stranded for 12 Hours

• 🚤 Two jet skiers experienced a harrowing ordeal off Staten Island after their watercraft lost power and overturned.
• ⏱️ The incident began Sunday night, with the individuals being stranded for approximately 12 hours before rescue.
• 🌊 They were found several miles from their intended destination, highlighting the challenges of open water.

Rescue Operations

• 🚒 FDNY's Marine 6 and Marine 8 units, along with the Coast Guard, were involved in the rescue efforts.
• 🔍 Firefighters spotted one of the jet skiers, a woman, bobbing in the water at 7:30 AM Monday.
• 📍 The second jet skier was located near Great Kills Beach shortly after.

Survival Factors and Safety Recommendations

• 🛟 Both individuals were fortunate to be wearing life jackets, which aided their survival.
• 🗺️ They had also informed a friend of their plans, providing a crucial starting point for the search.
• ⚠️ The Coast Guard emphasized the importance of having a proper radio, specifically a VHF radio on channel 16, to facilitate faster distress communication.
• 🥶 The rescued jet skiers required examination for hypothermia after their extended time in the water.

Outcome and Gratitude

• ✅ Despite the dangerous situation, both jet skiers survived due to favorable conditions and the swift actions of first responders.
• 🙏 The individuals expressed gratitude for being alive, acknowledging the challenging circumstances they faced.