HYANNIS – Following an extensive search this weekend, prompted by the discovery of three unmanned kayaks, the Coast Guard is reminding boaters to write their name and phone number on their small boats.
Unlike larger recreational vessels, most paddle craft do not have hull registration numbers that allow responders to contact the owner when the vessel is found unmanned.
As a result, valuable resources, and hours of man-power, are used conducting an often unnecessary search.
This weekend, a search began after three unlabeled kayaks were found adrift in Falmouth, Dennis and Osterville, and included resources from Station Cape Cod Canal, Station Woods Hole, the Dennis Harbormaster and the Barnstable Sheriff’s Office.
The costly effort was eventually abandoned when there was no missing persons reports filed.
According to the Coast Guard, putting your name and phone number on your boat is an easy solution – and basic courtesy – that allows the Coast Guard or other responders to quickly determine whether you are in fact missing at sea, or if your boat simply drifted away.
Including basic contact information also makes it easier to get your boat back.
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