Three boaters rescued by good Samaritan after vessel takes on water off upper Florida Keys

ISLANDIA, Fla. (CBS12) — Three boaters were safely rescued Saturday after their vessel began taking on water about 4 miles east of the Upper Florida Keys, according to the U.S. Coast Guard.

Coast Guard Sector Miami watchstanders received a MAYDAY call over VHF Channel 16 from a 26-foot Bayliner reporting the emergency with three people on board.

Before first responders arrived, a nearby good Samaritan reached the disabled vessel and safely rescued all three occupants. No injuries were reported.

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A boat crew from Coast Guard Station Miami then arrived on scene, helped dewater the vessel and escorted it safely to the Homestead Bayfront Park boat ramp.

The Coast Guard is reminding mariners to carry a VHF-FM radio, wear a life jacket and file a float plan before heading out on the water.

Officials said quick communication and assistance from nearby boaters can make a critical difference during an emergency at sea.