State launches new campaign to address visitor drownings

HONOLULU (HawaiiNewsNow) - A new Hawaii public service campaign is trying to push visitors to take ocean safety more seriously.

The state launched the campaign Monday. It includes new airport signage and an ocean safety smart phone app and website, hawaiibeachsafety.com.

The website and app will include up-to-date information on conditions at lifeguarded beaches statewide.

The new posters at airports include information on the new online tools, and tell visitors: "Know before you go. Don't be disappointed."

Ocean drowning is the leading cause of fatal injuries among Hawaii visitors. A recent survey found that almost all English-speaking tourists to the islands visit the beach at least once.

"Drowning is a major public health issue in our island state and building awareness about ocean safety among visitors and residents is absolutely necessary," said Dr. Virginia Pressler, director of the state Health Department. "Keeping people safe is a shared responsibility."