Coast Guard Rescues Four Boaters Off Big Pine Key

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MIAMI (CBSMiami/AP) — Filing a float plan helped save the lives of four people near Big Pine Key.

Sunday evening the The Coast Guard in Key West received a report of an overdue boat. The 21-foot pleasure craft had departed from Marathon but didn't return as planned.

An Urgent Marine Information Broadcast was issued and rescue crews began to search by air and sea. It was during the search that someone aboard the vessel called and gave their position. Coast Guard Station Marathon diverted to the position, located four people sitting atop the capsized vessels hull at approximately 9 p.m.

"This case highlights the importance of filing a float plan which can directly contribute to the Coast Guard's ability to successfully locate and rescue mariners in distress," said Petty Officer 1st Class Michael Pintabona.

Those rescued were taken to the Coast Guard station in Marathon. No medical concerns were reported.

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