Ten Kayakers Saved: The 911 Call That Worked

Quick Action and Clear Communication Defeat Sudden Storm Off Tybee Island

When the Coast Turns on You

The waters around Tybee Island are beautiful, but they can turn from calm to crisis without warning. That’s what happened to ten kayakers who found themselves stranded off Little Tybee Island when the weather suddenly went from good to dangerous.

The good news? Every single person was brought back to shore safely.

The reason for the successful rescue is a textbook lesson in smart preparation.

1. The Life-Saving Call
When the weather conditions became overwhelming, the group didn't hesitate. They called 911.

While many mariners prefer a VHF radio, in this near-shore environment, the 911 call immediately activated the local heroes: the Tybee Island Fire Rescue. This proves that having any reliable, charged, and protected communication device is a matter of life or death. The call was clear, the need was urgent, and the response was instant.

2. The Perfect Response
The Tybee Island Fire Rescue launched their rescue boat immediately. They located the group in the back river and, with efficient trips, rescued all ten people "without incident." This is a testament to the skill of the first responders and the group's smart decision to stay together and call early.

3. The Weather Warning
The core safety lesson here is simple: respect the coastal weather. Those sudden, "rapidly deteriorating" conditions are a constant threat. Always check the marine forecast before you leave, and if you see even the slightest hint of trouble—wind picking up, dark clouds approaching—turn back.

This rescue shows that planning ahead, having a charged phone or radio, and knowing when to ask for help are the best safety measures you can take on the water.

Want to read about more close calls?  Click here to see our weekly accident report and gain access to the archives.