Just as the sun was setting last night, at 1950 hours, Dunkirk VFD was dispatched for a water investigation on the Patuxent River. Engine 52, Boat 5A, Chief 5A, and Chief 5B responded. While Rescue Boat 6 from Huntingtown VFD was already on the water conducting training, they were added to the call to assist.
Units arrived to find a vessel that had run aground with two people and a dog aboard. Thanks to coordinated efforts between Dunkirk and Huntingtown personnel, all occupants were safely rescued and returned to shore. Chief 5B held command of the incident.
A reminder as boating season ramps up: Make sure your vessel is equipped with proper safety gear, you have a working radio or phone, and you know the waterways you’re navigating. Accidents can happen fast, especially near dusk—always let someone know your plan and expected return time.