Coast Guard says hoax distress calls a problem

JACKSONVILLE, Fla. (AP) – With a long holiday weekend approaching, U.S. Coast Guard officials in Jacksonville are warning people that making hoax distress calls is a felony.

The Coast Guard said Thursday that they began receiving suspected hoax calls in October 2014.

Each year, the Coast Guard says it receives 18 intentional false distress calls and another 121 suspected hoaxes nationally.

Because the Coast Guard takes all distress calls seriously, the fake calls result in thousands of wasted dollars.

Those caught making hoax calls could receive prison time, a $5,000 civil fine and $250,000 in restitution and criminal fines for costs incurred in the response.

Officials say if a person believes their boat is in danger to call it in, but that it’s also important to call again if the danger passes.