KODIAK, Alaska — A Coast Guard Air Station Sitka MH-60 Jayhawk helicopter crew rescued two hunters after their skiff overturned near Sitka Point Saturday.

The Jayhawk crew successfully hoisted the men and safely transferred them to Air Station Sitka.

Watchstanders at Coast Guard Sector Juneau were notified by the owner of the skiff, who was on another boat, that the skiff carrying two hunters overturned after one man disembarked. The man still aboard the vessel climbed on top until the Coast Guard arrived. The watchstanders diverted the Jayhawk crew from a training flight to respond.

“It is recommended that people carry multiple forms of communication devices with them including a VHF-FM marine radio, satellite phone, personal locator beacon and a cell phone,” said Petty Officer 1st Class Jeremy Dawkins, a watchstander with the Sector Juneau command center. “Not all devices will work in all areas that’s why it’s important to have more than one communication devise. It’s also recommended to notify others of your plans and have water and overnight supplies.”

The weather at the time of the incident was reportedly 15 mph winds with snow and visibility of about 5 miles.

A short video of the rescue can bee seen at Dvidhub.

Source: USCG