Fireboat 5 Responds to Multiple Marine Emergencies During July 4th

At approximately 6:45 p.m., Fireboat 5 was en route to provide marine standby coverage for the Solomon's Island fireworks display when the crew was diverted to assist with multiple marine emergencies on the Patuxent River.

While responding, Calvert County Communications advised of two individuals in a jon boat that had taken on water north of the Benedict Bridge. Before Fireboat 5 arrived, both occupants were able to safely reach shore. The crew located the individuals and transported them to the public boat ramp at Hallowing Point.

While en route to the boat ramp, Fireboat 5 came across another vessel in distress. The crew quickly located an approximately 20-foot speedboat that had capsized, leaving six occupants stranded on the overturned hull. Fireboat 5 safely rescued all six individuals and transported them, along with the two occupants from the earlier incident to the DNR boat ramp. Fortunately, none of the eight individuals required medical attention.

After clearing the DNR boat ramp, Fireboat 5 was dispatched on a mutual aid assignment to St. Mary’s County for a reported overturned personal watercraft near the Drift Inn. Upon arrival, the crew located all six individuals associated with the incident safely aboard a pontoon boat and on shore. No additional assistance was required.

Immediately after clearing that call, Fireboat 5 was dispatched back to the Benedict Bridge area for another reported overturned vessel. While responding, the crew advised command that it was likely the same capsized speedboat from the earlier rescue. Upon arrival, that was confirmed, and all responding units returned to service at approximately 8:45 p.m.

This busy two-hour period highlights the importance of regional cooperation between marine emergency response agencies and serves as a reminder for everyone enjoying the waterways to wear a properly fitted life jacket, ensure their vessel is equipped with the required safety equipment, and remain aware of changing conditions.

We are grateful that all individuals involved in these incidents were safely returned to shore and thank all assisting agencies for their teamwork and professionalism.