Ocean and Mountain Safety
Residents and visitors alike should review these safety tips for a safe outdoor adventure here in Hawaii.
Be Prepared
Plan Accordingly
Assess Your Capabilities, Know Your Health Limits and Fitness Level
Compare your level of fitness, ability, and experience with the location description. Be practical and realistic. There are a wide variety of trails, beaches, and activities in Hawai‘i, so pick one that suits your level.
Get Information About the Location
Learn about the location and activities you intend to experience so you will know how to get there, potential hazards and risks, and the types of services or accommodations (i.e. bathrooms). When you arrive, read and follow signage. Be aware of restricted or closed areas.
Inform Others of Your Plans
Let someone know where (name and location) you’re going, when you expect to return, and who you’re going with. If something should go wrong, rescuers will have accurate information on where to start searching.
Bring Supplies – Water, Snacks, Cellular Phone, Flashlight, Whistle
It is important to stay hydrated and maintain energy. Pack lots of water and some snacks, too.
In case of an emergency your cell phone can be a lifesaver. Ensure that your battery is full prior to your adventure. We recommend packing an external back-up battery.
A flashlight and whistle are also useful to let first responders find you.
Travel With a Partner or Group
Frequently, people who get into trouble are alone. In case of an emergency, your partner’s help can be invaluable. Don’t separate from your group.
Check Weather Conditions
Sunny and clear mornings are sometimes followed by rain and wind later in the day. Flash floods are dangerous possibilities in some areas. Call the National Weather Service for the latest forecast.
Wear Proper Clothing – Sun Protection, Foul Weather Gear
A hat, sunglasses, and sunscreen are recommended. Dress in layers so you can protect your skin from the intense tropical sun. Light rain gear is good to carry because of the quickly changing weather conditions.
Appropriate footwear is key. Hiking boots offer traction and ankle support to prevent slipping and injuries on muddy trails and slick or sharp rocks. Be careful walking barefoot to/from the beach, the pavement could be uncomfortably hot.
Practice Safety
Read and obey posted warning signs
Most accidents happen when adventurers leave the established trail and disregard warning signs for the area. Staying on the trail and within the public area greatly reduces your chances of injury.
Monitor Individuals
Monitor everyone’s condition. Dehydration, sunstroke, hypothermia, and fatigue can hit even experienced adventurers.
Avoid Undue Risks
Climbing waterfalls and following narrow ridgelines or gulches off the trail can place you in danger. Rock climbing is extremely dangerous due to the crumbly and porous nature of the volcanic rock. There have been fatal accidents from crumbling rock…don’t take the chance.
Always choose a lifeguard-protected beach to enjoy the water in the safest way possible. Strong currents, shorebreak, and the changing seasons can also affect how dangerous a beach can be. Understanding these ocean conditions can help you stay safe at the beach.
Watch the Time
Getting a late start increases the possibility of getting caught in the dark. Know your turnaround time and stick to it to allow enough time to return. If you’re caught by darkness, stay put unless you are very familiar with the area and have a flashlight.
In An Emergency
Call or Text 911: Ask for Fire/Rescue. Tell them where you are and what happened.
Be Visible: Wear or wave a brightly colored items in an open area during the day. At night, use a flashlight or camera flash.
Be Noisy: Use a whistle to attract attention.
Stay Calm: Objectively assess your situation before making any decision. Stay calm and positive.
Stay Put: You will be found more quickly and reduce the chances of getting into further trouble, especially after dark, by staying in one place. This is why it is important to notify someone of your adventure location and destination.
Stay Warm: Wind and rain can drain your body of warmth, and be life-threatening. Get out of the wind and use your rain gear or extra clothes to stay warm.
