MYRTLE BEACH, S.C. — A diver was rescued after drifting away at Myrtle Beach on Friday, May 31, according to the U.S. Coast Guard.
The 35-year-old man had drifted from his vessel while diving 75 miles away from the Myrtle Beach shores.
The Coast Guard was alerted around 1:50 p.m. when the diver did not resurface.
Multiple air and surface crews were sent to assist in the search efforts.
Luckily, an aircrew found the diver and deployed a rescue swimmer to bring him up to the helicopter.
He was flown safely to Cape Fear Regional Jetport where EMS took over.
“It was a miracle that our rescue swimmer spotted him while we were on the last leg of our sector search,” said Lt. Jeff Davis, Coast Guard Air Station Savannah aircraft commander. “The diver's yellow surface marker buoy helped us spot him despite the rough seas and strong winds, which limited visibility."
The man did not have any medical concerns, according to the Coast Guard.
If you're planning on diving this summer, the Coast Guard has some suggestions:
- Carry an emergency transmitter like a personal locator beacon if you get separated or experience distress.
- Plan the dive, ensure you have the appropriate gear, and conduct a safety check on the diving equipment.
- At depth, follow dive table parameters to prevent decompression sickness and air embolisms.
- Seek medical advice on your health concerns or medications taken before diving.
- Do not consume alcohol or drugs before diving.
- Always dive with a buddy, qualified instructor, or experienced guide.
- Consider the marine weather forecast before heading out. Atlantic Hurricane Season runs from June 1 through November 30, and conditions on the water can change quickly with developing storm systems.