The U.S. Coast Guard is warning that hoax distress calls are diverting rescue crews from real emergencies across the Great Lakes. The service has logged 187 false distress calls this year within its Great Lakes District, including three confirmed hoaxes.

Officials say initiating a hoax is a felony punishable by up to 10 years in prison, a fine of up to $13,295, and liability for the Coast Guard’s response costs. ‘Intentionally misleading emergency responders is both dangerous and illegal,’ said Capt. Mark Kuperman, chief of staff for the Great Lakes District.

The agency cautioned that social media posts suggesting distress, often lacking accurate location or hazard details, can trigger unnecessary launches. The warning lands as summer recreational boating peaks; nationally, 2024 saw 3,887 boating incidents, 556 deaths and $88 million in property damage.

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