11-Year-Old Calls 911 and Helps Save His Grandparents After Boat Emergency

Last week, 11-year-old Avani Perez was left alone aboard his grandparents’ boat when an accident quickly turned dangerous. His grandfather had gone into the water to free an anchor line that had become entangled with the propeller, and the current caught him. His grandmother immediately jumped in to help and both elders were swept into the water and began to struggle.

Realizing the seriousness of the situation, Avani acted decisively. He used the boat’s cellphone to call 911 and stayed on the line for about an hour while multiple agencies worked to pinpoint their location. During that time, dispatchers coordinated with the Coast Guard, sheriff’s deputies, and wildlife conservation officers to guide rescuers to the scene.

Responders from Fish & Wildlife Conservation, together with a nearby good Samaritan, successfully located Avani’s grandparents and pulled them from the water. The crew from Coast Guard Station Islamorada found Avani and the vessel and confirmed the family was reunited. Miraculously, both grandparents survived the incident.

Avani’s grandmother, Kim Harris, later said that Avani had practically grown up on the water and she never doubted that he would remain calm and do the right thing. In recognition of his quick thinking and bravery, the Coast Guard crew presented Avani with a gold coin as a token of appreciation for his actions.

How the Response Unfolded

The rapid response in this case came from coordinated efforts between public safety agencies and civilians. Avani’s 911 call gave rescuers crucial time and information while they worked to locate the boat. Staying on the line allowed dispatchers to gather and relay details and helped maritime responders narrow down the search area. The presence of a good Samaritan who assisted in the recovery underscores how bystanders can play an important role in emergencies.

Lessons for Boaters and Families

This incident highlights several important practices for anyone who spends time on the water. While the outcome here was positive, similar situations can quickly become life-threatening. Consider the following reminders to improve safety and preparedness on boats of all sizes:

• Keep one or more charged cellphones in a waterproof case and ensure someone on board knows where they are and how to use them.
• Wear life jackets when near open water, and make sure jackets fit each person on board, including children.
• Know basic emergency procedures: how to call for help, how to secure the vessel, and how to signal rescuers.
• Avoid entering the water to attempt a rescue unless you are trained and equipped to do so—throwable flotation devices and reaching aids can be safer options.
• Be mindful around anchors and propellers. Before diving or entering the water to free equipment, turn off the engine and secure propulsion to prevent additional injuries.
• Keep a float plan—share your trip details with someone onshore, including where you intend to go and when you expect to return.

Recognizing Calm, Prepared Action

Avani’s presence of mind under pressure was instrumental in saving his grandparents. Staying calm, using available technology to call for help, and maintaining communication with emergency services helped guide rescuers to the scene and ensured a coordinated effort. His story is a reminder that clear thinking and preparedness can make a life-or-death difference.

In the aftermath, family members and local responders praised Avani for his courage and composure. The gold coin presented by the Coast Guard serves as a tangible acknowledgment of his quick action and the role civilians can play in emergency situations. Families who spend time on the water can use this event as motivation to review safety plans, reinforce life jacket use, and make sure all passengers—children included—know basic steps to take if something goes wrong.