Monday September, 1 2025 @ 10:52

Nature: Water Rescue Priority 1

Location: 33338 Marina Bay Circle, The Peninsula, DE 19966

On Monday, September 1^st, the Indian River (80), Millsboro (83) and Dagsboro (73) fire companies were alerted for a water rescue incident the area of Lingo Creek between Pot Nets Bayside and the Peninsula.  Additional emergency alerts included the Mid Sussex Rescue Squad, the United States Coast Guard – Indian River Inlet Squadron and the DNREC – Marine Police.  It was reported to be a jet ski taking on water with limited location information possibly in the area of Paradise Grill. 

Emergency response units from Indian River included Utility 80-11 with 80 Marine 2 and Squad 80 from the Long Neck facility; Chief 80-15 and Utility 80-8 with 80 Marine 1 from the Oak Orchard facility as well as the Delaware State Fire Police.

Emergency response units responded as follows:

• 80 Marine 2 launched from Pot Nets Bayside – Pontoon Point area and responded to the Lingo Creek area as did DNREC Marine Police units;

• Squad 80, EMS and a Fire Police Unit responded to the Marine Bay Circle area in the Peninsula

• Chief 80-15 responded to the Peninsula – multiple locations for information gathering and visual observations

• 80 Marine 1 and Fire Police responded to the Pot Nets Bayside – Pontoon Point area

• Millsboro (83) and Dagsboro (73) were cancelled while responding.

During the course of this incident, there were multiple issues which required mitigation efforts:

1. One red jet ski in distress taking on water with a female occupant in the area of Lingo Creek and Paradise Grill seeking help – Marine Police were able to locate and mitigate this concern – no injuries or EMS needed.

2. Second jet ski struck in the mud further north of the initial incident location in Lingo Creek requiring assistance, this subject recently had a leg injury and was not comfortable walking in the marsh area while regular marine units could not approach based upon low tidal conditions and was awaiting a DNREC Mud Boat to respond to the area for assistance. All subjects were retrieved with no injuries or EMS needed.

Indian River Marine Units collaborated with DNREC Marine Units and returned to their original launch points after retrieval of distress mariners for closure of the incident.

Indian River offers advice to jet ski operators and riders to include being cognizant of tidal conditions and waterways which is critical for jet ski operations to ensure safety and prevent damage to their vessel. A rider's awareness of changing water depth, currents, sediment conditions and hidden hazards allows for better control and navigation.

How tidal conditions impact jet skiing:

1. Low tide

• Exposed hazards: Rocks, sandbars, and other underwater obstacles become exposed or closer to the surface during low tide. Riding in these areas can cause severe damage to your jet ski and pose a risk of injury.

• Shallow water: Operating in shallow water risks sucking sediment, mud, sea grass, and other debris into the pump, which can cause serious engine damage.

• When navigating these areas, you should proceed at idle speed.

2. Tidal currents

• Water flow: Tides generate strong, reversing currents, especially in narrow channels and inlets.

• Navigational challenges: Strong tidal currents can be difficult or impossible to overcome, even for powerful jet skis. Some areas may require planning your passage around the tidal flow.

3. Pre-ride safety tips for tidal waterways

• Check a tide chart. Before heading out, use a tide chart or app to find the high and low tides for your area. This is the single most important step to prevent accidents caused by changing water levels.

• Plan your route carefully. Plan your route with the tides in mind, especially if you plan to navigate shallow areas. Consider starting your trip at high tide and aiming to return before low tide.

• Use the buddy system. When possible, always go out with a friend. This increases safety and ensures you have help if something goes wrong.

• Inform someone of your plans. If you're going out alone, tell a friend or family member your planned route and expected return time.

• Carry a nautical chart. Familiarize yourself with the local seascape and carry a nautical chart of the waterways. This will help you identify channels and potential hazards.