Two stranded jet ski riders were rescued from Shinnecock Bay after their personal watercraft overturned and became disabled, according to the Suffolk County Sheriff’s Office.
The rescue happened Saturday, June 27, while Marine Bureau deputy sheriffs were on routine patrol. Deputies spotted a jet ski taking on water with two people in the bay clinging to the disabled personal watercraft.
After investigating, deputies determined the jet ski had overturned, leaving the riders stranded in the bay for more than 30 minutes.
Marine Bureau deputies safely brought both individuals and the disabled watercraft back to shore. Neither rider was injured.
“The Suffolk County Sheriff’s Office Marine Bureau is out on patrol to help ensure everyone can enjoy our waterways safely throughout the summer,” Suffolk County Sheriff Errol D. Toulon Jr. said. “I commend our Deputy Sheriffs for their quick response in rescuing these stranded jet ski operators and bringing them safely back to shore.”
The Sheriff’s Office is reminding boaters and personal watercraft operators to wear properly fitted life jackets, check weather and water conditions before heading out, and make sure their vessels are in safe operating condition.
Officials also reminded the public that under New York’s Brianna’s Law, all operators of motorized vessels, including jet skis and other personal watercraft, must successfully complete an approved boating safety course before operating on New York waters.
Photo: Suffolk County Sheriff’s Office.
