Training covers meth-lab safety

HILO » Some Hawaii County firefighters will receive training on how they can maintain their safety during calls to methamphetamine labs, the Hawaii Tribune-Herald reported Sunday.

The newspaper said a number of law enforcement agencies and fire departments from throughout Hawaii will take part in the training, but it’s the first time Hawaii County firefighters will be getting the instruction.

"We’re sending six members of our HazMat team," said Gerald Kosaki, fire battalion chief for special operations.

The meth lab training comes about two weeks after the police department asked the fire department to monitor the air around a suspected "ice" lab, Kosaki said. Making 1 pound of crystal meth produces 5 pounds of hazardous byproducts that are both dangerous to breathe and possibly explosive, Kosaki said.

The state Department of Public Safety’s Narcotics Enforcement Division is holding the training, which begins today on Oahu. Department spokeswoman Toni Schwartz declined to say how many firefighters will take part.

Man in hospital after rescue

A 27-year-old man was in critical condition after bystanders discovered him floating in waters off Kalapaki Beach, Kauai, on Saturday.

According to county officials, the man, who works on a cruise ship docked in Nawiliwili Harbor, was found face down in the water fronting Duke’s Canoe Club at 2:09 p.m. Bystanders pulled the man ashore and performed cardiopulmonary resuscitation until emergency personnel arrived.

Paramedics revived the man and took him to Wilcox Hospital.