Marine Corps Base Hawaii -- Johnathan Reyes, a beach lifeguard for Marine Corps Base Hawaii, was swimming at Pyramid Rock Beach when he saw Brad Akeo and Chris Tanaka, senior beach lifeguards for MCB Hawaii, running from the watchtower to the shoreline. A man stumbled from the water coughing and sat down. Reyes quickly went into action. He ran out of the water toward the group and began assisting. The patient wasn’t familiar with the beaches strong currents and became tired while recreationally swimming with a boogie board. He may have swallowed some water inducing an asthma attack. He recovered thanks to the lifeguards keeping watch in the tower.
The ocean can be a dangerous place if a person doesn’t understand the risk of rip currents, sea life and waves. The ocean is nothing like a swimming pool.
There were 47 ocean rescues and 42 beach and ocean first aid responses in 2013 on beaches aboard MCB Hawaii, totaling 89 rescues all together.
“The number of rescues is so low because we contact every person that comes onto the beach,” said Heather Chunn, aquatics/water safety manager. “It doesn’t mean the water isn’t dangerous, it just means we take preventative measures.”
The ocean’s conditions can change on an hourly basis, unlike a lake or pool, according to http://www.nps.gov. Swimmers should observe the waves and water before entering to get an understanding of water conditions. They should also observe the safety flags posted.
“If this is your first time at the beach, come to the lifeguard tower,” Reyes said. “We can educate you on the beach and water conditions.”
Swimmers should only enter the water where a lifeguard is present and should remain in the sight of the lifeguard. Children should only enter the water with adult supervision and no one should swim alone. When finding a place to enter the ocean, swimmers should avoid fishermen or surfers.
“We recommend if you are on any medications or under the influence of alcohol to stay on the shore,” Reyes said. “You can enjoy the water safely from the shore.”
Rip currents are a constant threat in Hawaiian waters. They form when a sandbar breaks and water funnels through the break. The current pulls the water and anything within its reach out to sea. When caught in a rip current, a swimmer must not swim against the current. The only way to escape is to swim parallel to the shore and slowly angle toward the shore. Rip currents are very common among Hawaiian waters.
Identify a rip current by observing the waves. A break in the incoming wave pattern as the waves roll to shore denotes a rip current. A channel of churning, choppy water, an area of a noticeable difference in watercolor or a line of foam or debris moving seaward are also indicators.
“The water may look calm,” Reyes said. “But there could be a really strong current underneath. You could get sucked out. So be careful.”
Swimmers should keep an eye on the weather. Storms can cause rough water making it unsafe to swim. Keep an eye out for jellyfish and other sea life.
“Be aware of the seals that sun bathe on the beach,” Reyes said. “They look like rocks, but be careful because they can tear you apart. Also, be aware of the Portuguese man-of-war. They don’t swim. Their bubble works as a sail and they get blown to shore by the winds. So if there is a strong wind we may see some, as well as five to nine days after a full moon.”
If stung by a box jellyfish, pour vinegar on the wound. If stung by a Portuguese man-of-war, pour salt water on the wound. Seek first aid if necessary. Avoid wearing shiny jewelry because it can attract sharks and other sea life.
By taking precautions when going to the beach, swimmers can remain safe and enjoy the ocean. Lifeguards are always there to help and educate any of those who are interested.
For more information about beaches and water safety on MCB Hawaii, call 254-7655.
“We are here for you guys,” Akeo said. “I’ve been a lifeguard for 22 years. We’re doing something good, something positive. I think we do a pretty good job.”