Coast Guard rescues 26-year-old male swimmer in Duluth

News Release

July 7, 2018 U.S. Coast Guard 9th District Great Lakes Contact: 9th District Public Affairs Office: (216) 902-6020 After Hours: (216) 310-2608 9th District online newsroom

Coast Guard rescues 26-year-old male swimmer in Duluth

CLEVELAND — The U.S. Coast Guard rescued a 26-year-old swimmer in Duluth Harbor, Saturday.

The survivor stated that he was swimming alone in the harbor when he became overtaken by the currents.

At approximately 7 a.m., local, the Coast Guard received notification of a person yelling for help in Duluth Harbor.

Coast Guard Station Duluth launched a 29-foot response boat - small crew and within 10 minutes of searching one of the crew members was able to see someone bobbing in the water. The crew pulled the individual into the boat and brought him to Pier B in Duluth Harbor where he was transferred to local EMS.

In this case, the Coast Guard was notified right away and was able to get on scene quickly, but precautions should always be taken to ensure safety when swimming in the Great Lakes in case first responders are not able to be on scene right away.

The Coast Guard reminds swimmers to be aware of water conditions and temperatures and to use the buddy system when swimming.

Additionally, telling someone onshore where you are going and when you are coming back can increase the probability of rescue if a swimmer were to become distressed. Having a point to start a search from can make the difference between a successful or unsuccessful rescue.

-USCG-