Coast Guard assists boater in distress in international waters

Coast Guard assists boater in distress in international waters

SAN PEDRO — The Coast Guard along with members of Tow Boat US assisted a boater in distress approximately 173 miles west of Ventura, Calif., as of Saturday.

Watchstanders at Sector Los Angeles-Long Beach command center received notification at 7:00 p.m., Thursday from the Coast Guard District 11 Command Center that the sailing vessel, Ajax, lost its rudder and was taking on water. The boater also reported the vessel's dewatering pumps were keeping up with the rate of the flooding.

Watchstanders maintained radio communications and continued to monitor the status of the boater.

The Coast Guard cutter Blacktip, an 87-foot patrol boat homeported in Oxnard, Calif., towed the vessel and was relieved by TowBoat US, which completed the tow of the vessel to Ventura.

The Coast Guard always urges mariners on the water to:
* Stay Informed - The public should be aware of weather conditions and monitor the progress and strength of currents through local television, radio and internet. Check the current and expected weather and water conditions before heading out, and be aware that weather conditions can quickly change.
* Wear life jackets while on the water.
* Always have a working marine-band radio on board.
* Carry marine flares on board the vessel.
* Ensure bilge pumps are operational and vessels are secure for heavy winds and rain.

-USCG-