SAFE BOATING WEEK EXPO, 2007
SAFE BOATING WEEK EXPO, 2007
The US Coast Guard, Coast Guard Auxiliary, the Honolulu Sail and Power Squadron and the Department of Land and Natural Resources, have invited ocean safety agencies on Oahu to participate with manned exhibits and demonstrations focusing on themes such as properly fitting a PFD, visual distress signals and handling common medical emergencies while at sea. The Expo series runs throughout the entire day on very detailed and important topics.
Each booth will focus on a specific ocean safety theme and will be manned by Federal, State and County experts on that topic. These ocean safety experts will answer detailed questions, provide advice, literature and references just for you and your specific needs. It's also a way for ocean users to get the latest information on new technology and trends.
Kayaking as a sport in Hawaii has experienced phenomenal growth in the past few years. But, because of the huge numbers of kayaks being bought, sold and rented, many more kayakers are having problems on the water. The Honolulu County lifeguards are planning a helicopter rescue to show the public what they can expect if they are in distress and need to be rescued at sea. They will also explain some of the real life scenarios they witness again and again. Hopefully, equipped with this insight, kayakers will know when and how to steer clear of this cycle of at-sea rescues.
Prize drawings for some outstanding safety equipment will be held every hour at the Expo, but you must be present to win.
For people who sign up for a vessel inspection during Safe Boating Week, May 19-25, the Expo organizers will provide a free safety incentive package, including a survival tool (whistle, compass, signal mirror), a pad of float plans, and other useful items. Supplies are limited, however, and when the incentive packages are gone, they're gone. A limited number of incentive packages will be sent to the neighbor islands, so boaters across the state can benefit.
To schedule a free vessel inspection during Safe Boating Week, please call the Coast Guard Auxiliary at 541-2084 or 292-1100.
Hilo boaters can get a free vessel inspection at the Wailoa Small Boat Harbor ramp, May 20, 2007, between the hours of 10:00 a.m. and 1:00 p.m. (or longer depending on volume of requests for inspections). This event is hosted by DLNR's Division of Conservation and Resources Enforcement (DOCARE). Vessel inspection incentive packages will be available for distribution while supplies last.
The Boating Safety Week Expo is scheduled for
May 19, 2007 - 9:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m.
at the Keehi Small Boat Harbor, 4 Sand Island Access Road, Honolulu.
The event is free and open to the public
Print a Safe Boating Week Expo Flier