DATE: August 29, 2009 11:04:12 AM EDT

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News Release

Date:
Aug. 29, 2009

Contact:
Cindy Beckert
(305) 318-1864
Coast Guard rescues disoriented swimmer in Banana River

PORT CANAVERAL, Fla. – The Coast Guard rescued a distressed swimmer from the Banana River near Merritt Island, Fla., Saturday at approximately 3:20 a.m.

Rescued was Rod Brown, 44, of Merritt Island.

A Coast Guard Station Port Canaveral watchstander received a phone call at 2:02 a.m. from a Brevard County Sheriff's Department officer relaying the distress. A 25-foot rescue boat crew was launched from a boat ramp at Kelly Park, Fla., in the vicinity of the initial distress location.   

Brown was transported to shore where emergency medical personnel were on-scene.

There are no reports of injuries.

The Coast Guard recommends to never swim alone, especially at night. It is very important to have somebody nearby who can find help during an emergency. In addition, it is never safe to consume alcohol and swim. Disorientation is imminent and the chances of drowning are greatly increased.

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