Port Washington boat capsizes on Lake Michigan, 4 rescued

PORT WASHINGTON - A frantic call for help on Sunday morning sent emergency crews rushing to the Port Washington Marina.

The Ozaukee County Sheriff's Office said, just before 5:40 a.m., four people were out fishing on Lake Michigan when their boat suddenly capsized.

"Fortunately, they had life vests on; they were able to make that call very quickly, so they didn't spend a lot of time in the water," said Scott Ziegler, director of the Ozaukee County Sheriff's Office Emergency Management department.

Ziegler said the fire department, sheriff's office and the U.S. Coast Guard responded, but before crews made it to the four in the water, there was another boat nearby.

"A private vessel reached the capsized boat and people first and was able to get them out of the water," Ziegler said.

That boat belonged to Nicky Boy Charters. The owner told FOX6 that they had a boat on the lake when the captain noticed people in distress and safely helped them to shore. 

Nicky Boy Charters told FOX6 over the phone the captain did what anyone would do in the same situation, and they're grateful to be able to help.

Ziegler said crews were able to recover the capsized boat. He also said the four victims were in good condition.

"While you're only required to have PFDs [personal flotation devices] for people on board, we always advise [to] wear them, because this can happen quite quickly," Ziegler said. "Getting a PFD on in the water is a struggle if not impossible, so having them on all the time when you're on the water is key."

Ziegler is also recommending people check the weather before going out on the water, have a cellphone and have a marine radio. He said anything can happen on the water, and you can never be too prepared.