WILMINGTON — Two people were rescued from Masonboro Island by the U.S. Coast Guard on Sunday night.
The Wrightsville Beach Coast Guard Station received word from New Hanover County Emergency Dispatch that two people were stranded on the island. They had been sailing a 27-foot boat when it struck the jetties near Masonboro Inlet; the boat took on water and the two abandoned ship, swimming to nearby Masonboro Island.
The Coast Guard launched a 29-foot response boat, rescuing both of the stranded individuals from the island. The two were delivered to EMS personnel waiting at the Coast Guard’s Wrighstville Beach station. According to the Coast Guard, one individual had suffered facial injuries.
The Coast Guard took the opportunity to remind all watercraft operators of the importance of proper communication equipment.
“The Coast Guard always recommends mariners have reliable communication with them while underway,” said Chief Petty Officer Seth W. Haynes, the command duty officer for North Carolina. “A cell phone or VHF radio will allow them to contact help should an emergency occur.”
