What You Should Know Before Heading to the Ocean
Before heading to the beach you should be familiar with the ocean conditions. Some beaches are more dangerous than others depending on the time of year or the weather conditions.
We always recommend swimming at a beach that has a lifeguard tower. You can visit any lifeguard tower for information on safe swimming, ocean conditions, or alternative beaches to go to.
Sign Up for Beach and Ocean Alerts
Download the City's HNL Info app to your mobile device or visit the site to see all alerts. This app will alert you to any unusual ocean conditions, lifeguard tower closures or other hazards that should be known to the public.
How to Prepare for an Ocean Emergency
Honolulu Ocean Safety rescues thousands of people in the ocean every year. If you see someone in trouble in the ocean, do not hesitate to call 911. Ocean Safety dispatchers will assist you over the phone, while sending emergency assets to your location. Do not go into the water unless you are a seasoned waterman or woman.
What Happens When You Call 911 During an Ocean Emergency?
When you dial 911 for someone who is in trouble in the ocean, ask for the lifeguards. You will immediately be put in touch with an Ocean Safety Dispatcher. The Dispatcher will ask you some pertinent information to confirm your location, phone number, and what the emergency is.
Be assured that Ocean Safety mobile responders are heading your direction as questions are being asked. If it is before or after Ocean Safety hours (before 6:30am or after 6:30pm), the Honolulu Fire Department will respond to the emergency.
What To Do If You Find Yourself in an Emergency?
If you find yourself in an emergency in the ocean, the first thing is don’t panic.
- If you have a phone with you, dial 911 and ask for a lifeguard (Ocean Safety).
- If you are in trouble and do not have a phone, try to get the attention of someone who can call 911.
- Try to remain calm until first responders arrive to assist.
- If you are in a dangerous area in the water near rocks or cliffs, you are safest trying to swim out and float till help arrives.
- Do not try to climb up cliffs when there are dangerous waves washing over them.
- Lifeguards are often only minutes away to help in an emergency.