Mixed Plate Special - Know before you go

Know before you go

Written by Catharine Lo
Sunday, March 15 2009
Ocean safety website posts continuous updates on conditions at Hawai‘i beaches The Hawai‘i Lifeguard Association and the University of Hawai‘i School of Ocean and Earth Science and Technology has collaborated to produce a valuable website (www.hawaiibeachsafety.org) that gives timely and accurate information on ocean conditions at O‘ahu, Kaua‘i, Maui, and Big Island beaches. Instead of relying on general surf and weather reports, recreational beachgoers can now access customized reports for individual beaches, compiled from scientific ocean data specific to a particular area. Easy-to-navigate maps and aerial shoreline photos allow users to view the hazards at various beach destinations. Lifeguards hope that this will assist ocean users to choose a beach that is appropriate to their skill level. According to the Department of Health, Hawai‘i has the second highest resident drowning rate in the country. If the number of visitor ocean fatalities is added, Hawai‘i may very well have the highest overall rate of drowning. The website serves to inform residents and tourists alike about big waves and strong currents, as well as small craft advisories, beach closings, jellyfish warnings, shark sightings and road closures. The site also features detailed descriptions of the beaches from Hawai‘i beach expert and former lifeguard John R. K. Clark. Not only does he explain the uses and dangers at each beach, he shares historical and cultural information about each stretch of shoreline. It adds another layer of depth to the ocean safety mantra, “Know before you go.” ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Comments (0) Subscribe to this comment's feed Write comment Name Email Comment Write the displayed characters