A Coast Guard boat crew from Station Bellingham rescues a 45-year-old paddler after his kayak was capsized by a wave near Parker Reef in the San Juan Islands of Washington, Sept. 25, 2026. Watchstanders from Coast Guard Northwest District command center coordinated the rescue after receiving an emergency call from the paddler on VHF channel 16. (Photo courtesy U.S. Coast Guard Station Bellingham)

US Coast Guard Northwest crews rescued a kayaker off Parker Reef near Sucia Island, WA, Friday September 25, 2026 morning after his kayak capsized in 54-degree water. His kayaking partner was able to remain afloat and upright.

Proper safety gear made all the difference in ensuring a positive outcome. Because the kayakers were wearing life jackets, dry suits, and used a VHF radio to call for help, watchstanders were able to quickly dispatch rescue crews from Station Bellingham and Air Station Port Angeles.

Petty Officer 3rd Class Mikko Smith, a crew member aboard a 45-foot Response Boat-Medium from Coast Guard Station Bellingham, works to rescue a 45-year-old paddler after his kayak capsized near Parker Reef in the San Juan Islands of Washington, Sept. 25, 2026. Watchstanders from Coast Guard Northwest District command center coordinated the rescue after receiving an emergency call from the paddler on VHF channel 16. (Photo courtesy U.S. Coast Guard Station Bellingham)

The Station Bellingham crew arrived on scene, successfully pulled the man from the water, and transferred him to awaiting EMS at Brandt’s Landing Marina. His partner was able to safely paddle to shore under his own power.

“In cold water, every single second counts,” said Lt. Allison Ruth, command duty officer for Sector Puget Sound. “This successful rescue was possible because the kayakers had dry suits, wore their life jackets and used a VHF radio to call for help.Their preparation gave our watchstanders and crews the critical tools needed to locate them and save a life.”

The Coast Guard says Bravo Zulu to all crews involved!

Remember: dress for the water temperature, wear your life jacket, and always carry a working VHF radio.