The Coast Guard and local authorities wrapped up a busy Fourth of July holiday handling multiple incidents off Waikiki, July 4, 2017. (U.S. Coast Guard photo by Petty Officer 1st Class Keith Ito)
HONOLULU — The Coast Guard and local authorities wrapped up a busy Fourth of July holiday handling multiple incidents off Waikiki, Tuesday.
Coast Guard crews partnering with Hawaii Department of Land and Natural Resources, Ocean Safety and Lifeguard Services and the Honolulu Police Department, rescued more than 30 persons in the water.
“Our overall objective yesterday was to ensure everyone was safe on the water and to deter possible violations of federal, state and local law,” said Lt. j.g. Brian Waters, Coast Guard Sector Honolulu Enforcement. “Our crews worked closely with HPD, DLNR and Ocean Safety to assist in the rescue of over 30 persons in the water, which included multiple intoxicated and underage youths.”
It is illegal to operate a boat while under the influence of alcohol or drugs in every state. Penalties for violating BUI/BWI laws can include large fines, suspension or revocation of boat operator privileges and jail terms.
An estimated 10,000 people were in attendance for the flotilla celebration, which included numerous personnel in various types of watercraft from motorized boats, kayaks, canoes, dinghies to inflatable floats.
Coast Guard crews also recovered over 100 inflatable floats to prevent future unnecessary search and rescue cases.
Sector Honolulu crews dispatched a 45-foot Response Boat-Medium boatcrew from Coast Guard Station Honolulu and four 25-foot Response Boat-Small boatcrews from Coast Guard Maritime Safety and Security Team Honolulu (91107) to conduct safety and security patrols throughout the day.
“We want to thank our state partners for their close coordination and assistance with the flotilla,” said Waters. “The joint effort highlights the importance of our partnership for these large holiday events.”
