Safety education is urged for all

The toll has rattled even Kauai’s first responders.

Seven people have drowned in open ocean or fresh waters on Kauai before the second month of the year has even drawn to a close.

That’s nearly twice the total seen last year.

"There are so many," said Kauai Deputy Fire Chief John Blalock.

All but one of the victims were tourists.

The latest happened Thursday, when a woman in her 40s was swept away when she attempted to cross swollen Hana­ka­piai Stream.

Authorities have confirmed the woman was a tourist but have not yet released her identity. She was traveling with her fiance.

With the latest death, first responders are again calling on visitors to educate themselves about weather conditions before they head out, heed warnings and steer clear of unnecessary risks.

"In everything it’s education, education, education," Blalock said.

Kauai is accustomed to grappling with the issue: The island has for years had the highest per-capita drowning rate in the state, a trend that researchers have struggled to explain.

While there were only four drownings on Kauai last year, a typical year sees about 15.

But the number of drowning deaths so early in the year has spurred new cause for concern.

Kauai Fire Battalion Chief Jason Ornellas, who oversaw the rescue of 54 hikers stranded in Hana­ka­piai Valley on Thursday and also coordinated efforts to recover the body of the woman who was swept away, said visitors can take simple steps to remain safe — like remaking plans for hiking or swimming if the weather isn’t cooperating.

He added that the rescue efforts Friday could have easily taken a turn for the worse, given that rain was steady throughout the day.

"You try to hope for the best, but you prepare for the worst," he said.

Officials are hoping that by raising alarms they’ll spur more people to plan their vacations with safety in mind.

Kauai will soon begin showing videos in the baggage claim area at Lihue Airport that stress key safety tips, such as swimming at beaches with lifeguards.

Officials are also calling on community members to do their part, telling visitors about the dangers of some of Hawaii’s greatest natural attractions.

"It’s everybody’s kule­ana," Blalock said. "Tourism is our income here, so it’s everybody job to educate."