S.R. No. 169 Summary

• Urges the Honolulu Ocean Safety Department to implement a drone training program to enhance lifeguard operations and strengthen marine life monitoring.

• Identifies benefits of drone technology including detecting marine life, assisting in search and rescue missions, delivering flotation devices, and locating stranded swimmers.

• Notes that the Honolulu Fire Department has successfully expanded its drone program for ocean-related emergency responses, demonstrating feasibility.

• References November 2024 drone footage that revealed hundreds of sandbar sharks near Nanakuli and over 100 shark warning signs posted on Oahu in 2024.

• Directs certified copies to be transmitted to the Mayor of the City and County of Honolulu, Managing Director, and Director of the Honolulu Ocean Safety Department.