HomeMy WebLinkAbout20210712KFD2DEREK S.K. KAWAKAMI, MAYOR
MICHAEL A. DAHILIG, MANAGING DIRECTOR
News Release
For Immediate Release: July 12, 2021
COUNTY OF KAUA‘I
KAUA‘I FIRE DEPARTMENT
STEVEN R. GOBLE, CHIEF
(808) 241-4980
Officials promote safety for popular outdoor activities
LĪHU‘E – Officials remind the public to exercise caution and offer safety tips for outdoor
activities such as hiking and swimming.
“Our focus remains on keeping our residents, visitors, and rescuers safe. Air, land, and sea
rescue missions are dispatched for emergencies,” said Kaua‘i Fire Department Chief Steven R. Goble.
“These rescue missions are extremely technical and present an elevated risk to everyone involved. If a
rescue is not deemed an emergency, a cost recovery process may fall upon those who intentionally
disregard safety in order to maintain the viability of our rescue program.”
When planning outdoor activities such as hiking and camping, officials advise outdoor
enthusiasts to let others know of their intended destination and return time, wear proper footwear,
have enough water to avoid dehydration, do not hike alone, remain on marked trails, and stay alert of
changes in weather conditions.
“As the visitor population continues to grow daily, the chance of rescues also increases,” said
OSB Chief Kalani Vierra. “The island offers many hidden beauties, which at times can also be some of the
most dangerous locations.”
For up-to-date information about Kaua‘i ocean conditions and ocean safety, please speak to a
county lifeguard at any lifeguard station, visit www.hawaiibeachsafety.com, or call the Ocean Safety
Bureau at 241-4984.
This year, the Kaua‘i Fire Department responded to 65 incidents that involved rescue efforts,
while the Ocean Safety Bureau responded to 128 incidents that involved rescue efforts from Jan. 1 to
June 30.
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