Rescue Tubes Utilized by Distressed Swimmers at Keawakapu

Keawakapu rescue tubes. PC: Wendy Osher/Maui Now graphic.

Rescue tubes played a critical role as swimmers in distress awaited for help to arrive in waters off of Keawakapu Beach in South Maui on Sunday afternoon, July 1, 2018.

Firefighters and Ocean Safety units responded to reports of multiple swimmers in distress at the location at around 12:50 p.m.

Upon arrival, crews found three individuals hanging on to a rescue tube and a fourth swimmer being kept afloat on another rescue tube.

Ocean Safety crews assisted all four to shore and none required medical attention.

The rescue tubes used by the distressed swimmers were placed on the beach as a community project funded and maintained by the Rotary Club of Kihei/Wailea.

The donated rescue tubes are positioned at various beaches in South Maui and are meant to provide buoyancy for distressed swimmers until help can arrive.

The Maui Fire Department reminds the public that ocean conditions can change in an instant. Officials say it is important to pay close attention to surroundings, and consult a lifeguard about ocean conditions if one is available.

Crews responding to the incident included the Maui Fire Department’s Ladder 14 crew out of Wailea, Ocean Safety Lifeguards and a Jetski unit.