BELLINGHAM, WA (MyBellinghamNow.com) – No one was injured after 12 kayakers were rescued from the San Juan Islands last week.

The U.S. Coast Guard says it was called to action around 2 p.m. on Thursday, Aug. 14.

It learned that 12 kayakers, including six children, were in distress between Patos Island and Sucia Island.

A Coast Guard crew from Bellingham worked with Royal Canadian Mounted Police and Washington State Park crew to quickly rescue the group.

All 12 people were brought back to Orcas Island.

First responders say the group’s VHF marine radio was key in the quick response and remind the public that carrying the radio can save lives.

“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. “It proved its worth by helping save lives in the San Juan Islands.”