Paddleboarder Rescued in Choppy Water at Ukumehame

At approximately 1:30 p.m. on Monday, Dec 21, 2015, emergency personnel from Station 3 (Lahaina) and Jet Ski 3 (Hanakaoo “Canoe” Beach) responded to waters outside the Ukumehame area for the report of a stand-up paddleboarder in distress.

Engine 3 personnel, searching from shore, were able to locate the victim about 600 yards from shore in high wind and choppy sea conditions.

Engine 3 personnel guided the Jet Ski 3 operator to the victim.

Maui Fire Capain Paul Haake said that during the rescue attempt, it was decided that the rental paddleboard be abandoned because of the harsh sea and wind conditions at the time.

Fire officials say the paddleboarder, a young male visitor from New Zealand, was brought to shore by Jet Ski 3 and re-united with his mom.

According to Capt. Haake, he was an experienced paddleboarder, but was caught off-guard by the harsh ocean conditions.

No medical attention was required.