Royal Canadian Air Force crew assists stranded sailor and dog

A Royal Canadian Air Force Griffon helicopter crew assisted a stranded boater and dog off the shore of Prince Edward County Monday morning.

Assistance from Canadian Coast Guard Cape Hearn and Coast Guard Auxiliary Wellington Rescue was initially requested when the sailboat first ran around.

The vessel refloated and was able to continue on its journey when it ran aground a second time close to Point Petre. Very shallow waters prevented a safe marine rescue.

Joint Rescue Coordination Centre Trenton tasked a CC-130 Hercules from 424 Transport and Rescue Squadron to locate the vessel.

The CH-146 Griffon arrived on-scene next and deployed Search and Rescue Technicians (SAR Tech) who helped the sailor walk to shore and board the helicopter.

“We deployed our SAR Techs into the water where they were able to reach the victim. They found a solid rock bar to walk on to get back to shore safely,” said Captain James Wilson, Pilot, 424 Transport and Rescue Squadron.

Both the sailor and his dog were flown to a nearby location where the Ontario Provincial Police was standing by for assistance. (See our Twitter feed below for RCAF video)

Search and rescue (SAR) incidents under the federal SAR mandate are defined as “all aircraft incidents and all marine incidents in waters under federal jurisdiction.

With the exception of federally-owned national parks, the overall responsibility for land and inland water SAR rests with the provinces, territories and municipalities.

The Canadian Armed Forces may, however, provide assistance to land and inland water rescues when requested.