We want you to have the most wonderful, safe time in Maui's beautiful waters! Here are some caring reminders to help you enjoy the ocean with peace of mind:

Stick with the lifeguards – They're your ocean ohana! Swim at lifeguard-patrolled beaches and have a friendly chat with them about the day's conditions. They know these waters like old friends and genuinely want to keep you safe.

Those signs are there for a reason – Take a moment to read posted warnings. Think of them as helpful whispers from people who care about your wellbeing.

If you need help, make it clear – Wave an arm and shout "HELP!" rather than calling someone's name. This helps everyone around you understand you need assistance right away.

Stay calm, breathe easy – If you feel uneasy in the water, remember that staying calm is your superpower. Panic uses up energy fast, and we want you to conserve your strength.

Respect the power of waves – Those dramatic waves crashing on rocks are stunning to watch, but please enjoy them from a safe distance on shore. The ocean is beautiful but mighty, and we've lost too many wonderful souls to sneaker waves.

Save the celebration for after your swim – If you've had alcohol or anything that might affect your judgment or reflexes, please enjoy the beach from your towel instead. The ocean will be just as magnificent tomorrow!

For real-time beach and ocean conditions across all of Hawaii's guarded beaches, visit safebeachday.com – it's like having a local expert in your pocket.

The ocean is one of Maui's greatest gifts. Let's keep your memories here joyful and safe! 🌺

Keeping Our Keiki and Loved Ones Safe in the Water

Our hearts break knowing that drowning is the leading cause of death for children ages 1 to 15 in Hawai'i, and too many of our cherished visitors as well. With an average of 80 drowning deaths each year over the past decade, we're deeply committed to changing these heartbreaking statistics. That's why we've placed Public Access Rescue Tubes along our beaches—simple tools that are saving precious lives every day.

What Are Rescue Tubes?

You'll spot these bright yellow flotation devices mounted on poles along the shoreline—each pole has an ID number at the top so you can tell emergency responders exactly where you are. Whether you're helping someone in trouble or need one yourself, these tubes can be lifesavers, keeping people afloat until help arrives.

How to Use a Rescue Tube (You Could Save a Life!):

1. Call 911 first – Share your location using the pole's ID number and tell them how many people need help
2. Loop the tethered strap over your shoulders and swim toward the person in distress
3. Push the tube toward them from about 10 feet away – Don't get too close, as panicked swimmers may accidentally pull you under
4. Encourage them to hold on and rest – Let the tube do the work of keeping them afloat
5. If near rocky shores, kick or swim away from the rocks – Don't try to climb back on. Stay in calmer water and wait for emergency responders

Every one of these tubes represents our commitment to protecting you and your ohana. We want every person who visits our shores to return home safely with beautiful memories.

Learn more about staying safe in our island waters at: www.RescueTubeFoundation.org

Together, we can keep our community and visitors safe. Mahalo for looking out for each other! 💛