PORTLAND, Ore. (KOIN) -- A dozen kayakers - including six children - were rescued by the Coast Guard and other agencies from waters in the San Juan Islands Thursday afternoon.

Around 2 p.m., officials said a VHF marine radio notified USCG watchstanders in Puget Sound, who then issued a broadcast saying 12 kayakers were reported to be in distress between Patos Island and Sucia Island.

A Coast Guard boat crew from Bellingham, a boat crew from the Royal Canadian Mounted Police, as well as a Washington State Parks vessel patrolling the area responded to rescue them.

USCG said all 12 were safely rescued and no injuries were reported.

“A VHF marine radio is a mariner's lifeline when there is no cell phone service,” said Capt. Michael Hunt, deputy commander, Coast Guard Sector Puget Sound. “I

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