Hawaii's many beaches such as Sunset Beach on Oahu's North Shore present breathtaking, awe-inspiring and sometimes dangerous waves and ocean conditions for beachgoers to experience. Whether it be winter high surf season or a lazy Sunday on the shore, it is important to always follow basic ocean safety tips to prevent injury to self and others: * Swim in lifeguarded areas; * Never swim alone; * Ask a lifeguard about beach and surf conditions before swimming; * Rely on your swimming ability rather than a floatation device; * Do not dive into unknown waters or shallow breaking waves; * If unable to swim out of a strong current, signal for help; * Look for, read and obey all beach safety signs and symbols; * "If in Doubt, Just Stay Out!" Source: Ocean Safety and Lifeguard Services Division, City and County of Honolulu Emergency Services Department. A note about sharks: Shark attacks in Hawaiian waters are very rare, with surfers and spearfishers being most at risk. The State of Hawaii's Division of Aquatic Resources of the Department of Land and Natural Resources recommends the following tips: 1. Swim, surf or dive with other people. Do not move too far away from assistance. 2. Stay out of waters at dawn, dusk and night, when some species of sharks move inshore to feed. 3. Do not enter waters if you have open wounds or are bleeding. Sharks can detect blood and body fluids even in very small concentrations. 4. Avoid murky waters, harbor entrances and other areas near stream mouths (especially after heavy rains, channels or steep drop-offs, which are known to be frequented by sharks. 5. Do not wear high-contrast clothing or shiny jewelry while swimming; sharks see contrast very well. 6. Refrain from excessive splashing and keep pets, which tend to swim erratically, out of the water; sharks are attracted to such activity. 7. Do not enter waters if sharks are known to be present, and leave the water quickly and calmly if one is sighted. Do not provoke or harass a shark, even a small one. 8. Leave the water if fish or turtles start to behave erratically, this may be a sign that a shark may be present. 9. Remove speared fish from the water or tow them a safe distance behind you. Do not swim near people fishing or spear fishing. Stay away from dead animals in the water. 10. Swim or surf at beaches patrolled by lifeguards and follow their advice and instructions. |