ARLA/CLUSTER: Radioamadores americanos usando os seus radios salvam a vida de jovem adolescente de 12 anos

[João Costa > CT1FBF]

Connecticut ham uses radio to save girl's life

On May 5th, Keith Mutch KB1RBI of Torrington, CT was on Ocean Beach
looking out over New London harbor when he spotted an unidentified 12
year old girl and her dog, in distress as she attempted to paddle her
canoe in the rough waters and increased winds on Long Island Sound.

Mutch quickly attempted to contact the U.S. Coast Guard with his cell
phone, only to find that device did not have reception.  Of course,
When All Else Fails.....Mutch turned to his hand held amateur radio.

Mutch, a Technician Class licensee, was able to communicate with the
Coast Guard who alerted the nearby cross sound passenger ferry "John
H" to be on the look out for the girl.  Meanwhile the canoe in which
the girl and dog were paddling had capsized.

The ferry located the girl and the crew began "Man Overboard"
procedures, tossing her a life ring, which she clung to until a boat
crew from Coast Guard Station New London arrived to complete her
rescue.

The dog swam 3/4 of a mile back to land, where ironically,  Keith
Mutch spotted him. Mutch says that he chased the German Shepherd up
and down the beach for more than a half hour before being able to grab
the leash and calm the animal. Mutch contacted the Coast Guard and he
was able to reunite the dog with the girl's family.

A ceremony at New London City Hall honored those involved in the
rescue.  The boat crews from the ferry and the Coast Guard received
commendations



John N7UR

Nevada Amateur Radio Newswire
http://www.nevadahamradio.com/