Kauai‘s population continues to grow within our Eastside corridor. With hotels, resorts, time shares, condos and residential neighborhoods from Kalapaki Bay to Anahola, the expansion of Kaua‘i’s lifeguard corps and equipment for rescue is in place to handle such an
Kauai‘s population continues to grow within our Eastside corridor. With hotels, resorts, time shares, condos and residential neighborhoods from Kalapaki Bay to Anahola, the expansion of Kaua‘i’s lifeguard corps and equipment for rescue is in place to handle such an influx.
Additional lifesaving equipment has played a large part in reducing the number of drownings and rescues island-wide, particularly along our eastern shoreline.
The growing rescue corps and its associated equipment on the Eastside has created a need for storage, maintenance and operational space.
“The site has room for growth” exclaimed Kalani Vierra, Ocean Safety head, “and an area of about 2,300 square feet for its operation has been recognized and it’s on the county agenda for consideration.”
Kaua‘i Fire Department chief Robert Westerman said, “Kaua‘i’s North and South shore facilities are both operating and their efficiency is highly regarded. The one area in need of expansion is our island’s Eastside for storage, maintenance and operation.”
Just a few years ago, the island was dealing with 15 drownings and countless rescues every year. The added equipment has reduced the number of rescues considerably. At one point a few years ago, Kaua‘i led the nation in drownings per capita. Through May of this year, there has yet to be one death classified as drowning on Kaua‘i.
“The numbers speak themselves,” Westermansaid. “However, keeping the equipment and all our utilities in top performing condition on our Eastern shores is a must.”
The Kaua‘i Lifeguard Association’s 2nd Wave ocean safety campaign is now under way. Its theme and goal continues to be one that will help save lives. Monies raised this summer will support 11 differnet programs and activities. A donation to KLA will support the Oceans 11 and assist in creating an ideal service facility for Eastside beaches.
If you wish to support the KLA 2nd Wave ocean safety program, go to kauailifeguards.org or call KLA event coordinator Andy Melamed at 482-0218.
