Boat rental preparations were key to rescuing marooned men

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Boaters return to shore after being rescued by the US Coast Guard. Credit: WINK News

Haley and Ryan Skrzypek rented a boat at paradise boat rentals in Cape Coral. But, before they travel to Fort Myers Beach they have a ritual task.

“Always have your phone charged in case something happens,” Haley said. “Always be able to contact somebody. Let somebody know that like you’re going on the boat today.”

The pair will also get vital information from rental staff.

“We’ll show you the boat,” said Matthew Trottier, boat captain at Paradise Boat Rentals. “Show you what’s on the boat, where it is, how to use it and what application it has.”

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Trottier told WINK News all rentals must have safety equipment, such as flares, a fire extinguisher, whistle, throwable flotation device and more.

The rescue of a pair of boaters Wednesday night proved how critical preparation can be.

The two men were stranded at sea for more than 24 hours with no fuel or cell phone battery, which made the search harder. But, eventually the Coast Guard found them and took the two men back to the shore.

“People come down here, they don’t necessarily know the area as well as the locals,” said Jacob Brooks, of the U.S. Coast Guard. “But, rescues like this can happen at any time of the year. Honestly, you never know whats going to happen.”

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