A rescue operation off the coast of Key Largo on July 11 successfully located an overdue diver. The diver had been reported missing from the dive vessel Island Hopper, approximately five miles from John Pennekamp Coral Reef State Park.

Diver Reported Missing

The Coast Guard Sector Key West received a report at approximately 11:45 a.m. from the crew of the Island Hopper. They stated that a 45-year-old male diver had not returned to the surface about 15 minutes past his scheduled resurfacing time.

The diver was successfully located because he was equipped with a delayed surface marker buoy (DSMB), which enabled us to identify his position approximately one-quarter mile away.

Following the report, watchstanders issued an urgent marine information broadcast. A boat crew from Coast Guard Station Islamorada was dispatched to conduct a search. Additional assistance came from a helicopter crew from Coast Guard Air Station Miami and both air and surface crews from the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission.

Successful Rescue and Safety Recommendations

The Station Islamorada boat crew located the diver within the initial search area. He was transported to emergency medical services at Garden Cove Marina in stable condition. Petty Officer 2nd Class Damian Burnham, a member of the Station Islamorada boat crew, highlighted the importance of the diver's equipment.

“This incident underscores the importance of carrying a DSMB while scuba diving, as it significantly enhances a diver s visibility at the surface and can greatly improve the speed and effectiveness of locating a diver,” Burnham stated, as reported by Keys Weekly.

The Coast Guard advises divers to carry emergency signaling equipment. They also recommend maintaining communication with their vessel and ensuring someone ashore is aware of their dive plan before departing. For more information on Coast Guard operations, visit USCG.mil.