The following is the text of a news release from the U.S. Coast Guard:
(NEW YORK) — The Coast Guard rescued a 12-year-old girl from the waters near Ocean Beach in New London, Conn., on Sunday.
At approximately 6:20 p.m., the Coast Guard Sector Long Island Sound command center received a report from a good Samaritan of two possible people in a canoe who appeared to be in distress.
The Coast Guard launched a rescue helicopter from Coast Guard Air Station Cape Cod, Mass., a rescue boat crew from Station New London, and requested assistance from the passenger ferry John H, which was transiting in the area.
The John H ferry reported observing the canoe capsize and the girl and her dog, which was the second passenger, entered the water. A ferry crewmember quickly deployed a life ring to the girl, who was not wearing a life jacket.
Station New London’s boat crew arrived on scene and rescued the girl, who was showing signs of shock and hypothermia. She was brought back to Station New London and transferred to awaiting emergency medical services.
"Luckily the John H ferry was there to provide the girl with a life ring, increasing her chances of survival," said Lt. Daniel Tavernier, commanding officer of Coast Guard Station New London. "It’s extremely important to always be prepared for unexpected emergencies, especially by wearing a life jacket. Life jackets increase the chances of survival by reducing fatigue and enhance your visibility to first responders, which could save your life when every second counts."
A good Samaritan located the dog on shore and volunteered to deliver it to the owners.
