when the vessel or crew are in immediate danger
When vessel and crew are in immediate danger
when a vessel is aground is when the vessel or the crew are in inmediate danger.
To qualify for Coast Guard assistance when a vessel is aground, the vessel must be in a situation where it poses a risk to navigation, environmental safety, or the safety of the crew and passengers. The vessel owner or operator should notify the Coast Guard of the grounding and be prepared to provide details about the situation. Additionally, the Coast Guard may assess the need for assistance based on the severity of the grounding and potential hazards. If the situation is deemed non-emergency, the vessel owner may need to arrange for commercial salvage or towing services.
If a vessel is aground on another boat, it must have had a collision with the boat it is aground on. The coastguard will therefore be investigating the scene with a view to prosecuting one or other of the vessels captains.
Documentation with the U.S. Coast Guard
The Coast Guard will respond if there is eminent danger to persons or the vessel. If there is eminent danger they will take the persons off the vessel if possible or have them airlifted. They will not attempt to pull the vessel off unless it is clear that it will float free. This is because they may further damage the vessel or put their own vessel and themselves in danger. If the vessel is hard aground or up on the rocks they will most likely tell you to wait for the next high tide, and call a towing company or salvage company. This may cost you a lot unless you have one of the subscription towing services.
From November 1 to May 1, each person on board a recreational vessel that is less than 21 feet long must wear a U.S. Coast Guard-approved personal flotation device (PFD). This requirement aims to enhance safety during colder months when the risk of cold water immersion is higher. It's important for all passengers to have a properly fitted PFD while the vessel is underway.
Children under the age of 13 must wear a US Coast Guard-approved life jacket while underway in an open vessel on federally controlled waters. This requirement aims to enhance safety and reduce the risk of drowning. The life jacket must be properly fitted and in good condition. Additionally, the vessel must have enough life jackets on board for all passengers.
Coast Watch - 2010 Seized Vessel 2-9 was released on: USA: December 2010
The USCG Auxiliary is a volunteer arm of the USCG. They or the active duty CG are not obligated to tow a disabled vessel. Every effort is always made to help protect the public to the greatest extent possible. But depending on many criteria each situation is evaluated as to the safety of the public and the boats and crews involved.
Children 12 years old and younger are legally required to wear a U.S. Coast Guard-approved life jacket at all times while underway on any vessel that is 20 feet or less in length. This requirement aims to enhance safety and reduce the risk of drowning for young passengers. Exceptions may apply when the vessel is anchored or aground.