A Coast Guard aircrew rescued a swimmer who was reportedly showing signs of hypothermia in Alsea Bay near Waldport, Friday evening (9/18). An MH-65 Dolphin helicopter crew from Coast Guard Air Facility Newport hoisted the man at 7:38 p.m. and transported him to Newport Hospital for medical treatment. An onlooker on shore contacted watchstanders at Coast Guard Sector North Bend around 7 p.m. requesting assistance after she lost sight of the swimmer. Watchstanders launched both the Dolphin crew and a 47-foot Motor Lifeboat crew from Coast Guard Station Yaquina Bay in Newport. “Even with a wet suit, this man was showing signs of hypothermia,” said Lt. Loren Sancineto, who piloted the helicopter during the hoist. “This case confirms the importance of wearing proper safety gear, especially in cold water conditions. Without it, he would have been in even greater peril.” The weather at the time of the rescue was reported to be clear skies with 2-to-4-foot waves and water temperature of 57 degrees.
Information and photo provided by USCG
