When Adventure Turns to Disaster: The Urgent Need for Rescue Boats in the Florida Keys
As boaters and water sports enthusiasts flock to the Florida Keys each year, the probability of accidents is inevitable. A recent incident in Big Pine Key served as a stark reminder of the urgent need for rescue boats in the area.
A Ladder and a Towboat
On a sunny day, a boat collided with a bridge, leaving eight passengers stranded. A rescue effort followed, but it was not without its challenges. A ladder was used to bring up the passengers, one by one, while those injured were trapped on the sinking boat. A towboat eventually arrived, but it was not equipped for rescue operations, and even then, it was unclear if it would arrive in time. "We are going to do everything we can and it’s probably going to be one by one," said a rescuer. For some, it was too late.
The Crashing Reality
The Monroe County Fire Department has only two fire rescue boats, one in Key West and the other in Ocean Reef, a private community. This is in stark contrast to Miami-Dade, which has six fire rescue boats for approximately 55 miles of coastline. Broward County, with 23 miles of coastline, has four rescue boats.
A Mother’s Loss and a Fight for Change
June Smith’s 13-year-old daughter, Harlie, was killed in a boating accident in 2017. The experience left her with a determination to change the system. "You just know that’s where it’s ending," she said. "I don’t want people to be helpless." Her efforts led to the creation of Heart Like Harlie, a nonprofit aimed at funding rescue boats in the Florida Keys.
A Glimmer of Hope
The Florida legislature recently approved $900,000 for three new rescue boats in Key Largo, Marathon, and Cudjoe Key. While this is a step in the right direction, June acknowledges that more needs to be done. "It’s just, every time I hear an accident, I’m like ‘Ugh. They are fighting. They are fighting to get to shore.’"
Conclusion
The recent incident in the Florida Keys is a stark reminder of the urgent need for rescue boats in the area. While the Monroe County Fire Department is working to address the issue, more needs to be done to ensure that those in need of rescue get the help they require. As June Smith continues her fight for change, it is crucial that the Florida government and law enforcement agencies prioritize the allocation of resources to ensure that those in distress on the water can receive the assistance they need.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Why is there a need for rescue boats in the Florida Keys?
A: The Keys are a popular destination for boaters and water sports enthusiasts, making the risk of accidents higher. A lack of adequate rescue resources puts those in distress at risk.
Q: What is being done to address the issue?
A: The Monroe County Fire Department is working to address the issue, and the legislature has approved funding for three new rescue boats.
Q: What can I do to help?
A: Spread awareness about the need for rescue boats in the Florida Keys. Consider donating to organizations like Heart Like Harlie, which is working to fund rescue boats in the area.
