Safe and Sound

On an island full of adventure, it’s natural to take certain steps to stay safe and sound so you can enjoy Hawaii Island to the fullest. Here’s some info you can share with your clients that will help them have a good time.

Personal Security

It’s rare for a visitor to have a bad experience involving crime on the Big Island, but this is the real world, so it’s prudent to take precautions. Here are some simple things your clients can do to protect themselves:

• Carry travelers checks instead of large amounts of cash. Divide money and credit cards.
• Keep valuables in your hotel room or a hotel safe. When out for the day, keep essentials with you; don’t lock valuables in the car.
• Keep an eye on your belongings while on the beach.

Like the rest of the country, call 911 in an emergency. If a visitor does have a bad experience, the Visitor Aloha Society Hawaii may be able to lend assistance. In West Hawaii, call 756-0785; in East Hawaii, 756-1472.

Ocean Safety

Hawaii’s near-shore water temperatures remain comfortable throughout the year. The average water temperature is 74 degrees F. (23.3 C), with a summer high of 80 degrees F. (26.7 C). Wave action varies dramatically between winter and summer, and between island coasts.

Summer waters are typically gentle on most beaches. This changes in the winter on many north-facing beaches, as storms far out into the Pacific drive ocean swells towards the islands, building large breaking waves. If there is too much surf on one beach, there’s usually find calmer water at a more sheltered beach.
It’s crucial to always take care in and around the water. From shore, the clear, tropical waters of the Pacific look inviting, and for the most part they are. But the ocean also commands respect. Strong, hidden currents can easily overpower even the most seasoned swimmer. Diving can be dangerous due to hidden rocks below the surface. Walking on coral can result in cut feet and damaged coral. It’s a good idea to check for jellyfish before entering the water, especially eight to ten days after a full moon.

Standing on rock outcroppings can also be dangerous because of the risk of a sudden, rogue wave. The cardinal rule: never turn your back on the ocean. It’s also important to always keep an eye on the keiki (kids) whenever they’re near the water. Even if lifeguards are nearby, it’s smart to use the buddy system—and look for warning flags and posted beach conditions.

When in doubt, anyone can simply ask hotel staff or a lifeguard for recommendations.

Sun-smart

Even when the sun is hidden by clouds, your clients will want to protect themselves from burning ultra-violet rays that come through. Before going out for the day it’s a good idea to liberally apply sun-block with an SPF factor of 30 or above, and to reapply after swimming. Sun gear should also include a brimmed hat, sunglasses and long sleeves.

Hiking

Hawaii is an awesome place to hike, with trails ranging from short, easy loops to demanding backcountry treks suitable only for experienced, well-equipped hikers. Hikers should carry plenty of water, sun protection and a cell phone. It’s best to always hike with a buddy and tell someone where you’re going and when you expect to return. For more information, read the state of Hawaii’s hiking safety brochure

Mountain Climbing

Hawaii’s mountains are not suitable for roping or climbing. The volcanic rocks are often porous, crumbly weathering basalt, providing unstable support, and thus make mountain climbing exceedingly dangerous.

Rock Slides

Steep valley walls and sea cliffs are subject to rock slides and rock falls. Falling rocks are also a common hazard under waterfalls. It’s best to avoid the base of steep cliffs and waterfalls, or at least reduce the time you are exposed to this hazard.

Flash Floods

Gentle streams can quickly become rushing torrents. Signs of flash flooding include:

• Increase in the speed of the stream flow
• Rapid rise in stream level
• A distant rumbling upstream
• The smell of fresh earth

Hikers should always be prepared to move immediately to higher ground, and never attempt to cross a stream when the water level is above their knees.

Freshwater Swimming

Swimming with an open cut or sore in streams or ponds is unwise due to risk of infection from harmful bacteria such as leptospiroisis. Before drinking, stream water should be purified by boiling or with chemical purification.
Drinking: Do not drink the water without first purifying it by boiling or with chemicals.

Altitude

Many visitors are drawn to the natural beauty found at higher elevations on Hawaii Island, such as on Kilauea, Maunaloa or Maunakea volcanoes. It’s important to come prepared with long pants and several layers of cool weather clothing because temperatures at higher elevations drop 3.5 degrees for every 1,000 feet above sea level. With cloud cover or rain, temperatures can drop suddenly.

Higher elevations also mean less protection from the sun’s powerful rays, even though cool air masks the burning effect. So it’s important to apply sun block liberally, and bring a hat, sunglasses and water.