In past years, Kaua’i County lifeguards could almost predict drownings would occur every month. That trend has changed so far in 2001. Due to an absence of storms and riptides and a stepped-up public education effort to warn residents and
In past years, Kaua’i County lifeguards could almost predict drownings would occur every month.
That trend has changed so far in 2001.
Due to an absence of storms and riptides and a stepped-up public education effort to warn residents and visitors about the dangers off Kaua’i, people are drowning less often, says a county water safety official.
For the first six months, Kaua’i recorded only three drownings, down from seven for the same time period last year.
That is good news because Kaua’i, being exposed to treacherous north swells, has averaged more drownings each year than any other Hawaiian Island in the past decade. Over the last two years, Kaua’i registered 24 drownings, mostly visitors.
The most recent confirmed drowning this year occurred in April. A fourth person, a female visitor from the mainland, disappeared after being last seen on Anini Beach with snorkeling gear and is presumed drowned.
Drownings dropped this year because ocean currents are smooth and riptides are absent, said county lifeguard Myles Emura.
“We haven’t had a swell or El Nino or a big storm, so the ocean has not really been rough,” Emura said. “That is the biggest factor I can think of.”
Drownings also have dropped because hotels and businesses and the Kaua’i Visitors Bureau are “pushing water safety” with literature that points out dangerous swimming conditions and areas, Emura said.
Public awareness about dangerous swimming conditions and areas also has helped prevent drownings, Emura said.
“Everybody is more aware of ocean safety because of the high rate of drownings we have had,” he said.
The county’s junior lifeguard program, which will be staged at various island beaches in July, also has helped, Emura said. Participants learn about nature and ocean currents, how to improve themselves physically and mentally and how to save lives. They also learn how to report emergencies, administer first aid, build swimming skills and stamina, and how to use motorized water rescue craft.
This year, the number of junior lifeguards, ranging from 13 to 18 years old, was expected to swell due to increased interest in the program, which is offered at no charge.
The hundreds of thousands of dollars the county has invested in a five-year program to reduce the risk of drownings also have helped keep beachgoers safe, Emura said.
The county hired many of the 10 lifeguards proposed in the plan, set up training programs and bought emergency equipment, officials note.
To further support the patrolling of county beaches, new plans call for the hiring of another six lifeguards by the end of July, Emura said.
Staff writer Lester Chang can be reached at 245-3681 (ext. 225) and mailto:lchang@pulitzer.net
