HI SCR55

Hawaii ranks second in the nation for annual drowning fatalities per capita, with drowning being the leading cause of death for children ages 1-15 (26 children lost between 2019-2023) and the leading cause of injury-related visitor deaths.

Native Hawaiians and Pacific Islanders comprise 27% of the population but account for 36% of drowning deaths, while visitors make up less than 15% of daily population but constitute the majority of drowning victims, with snorkeling causing 91% of visitor ocean drownings.

The resolution endorses the Hawaiʻi Water Safety Plan developed by the Hawaiʻi Water Safety Coalition, which calls for establishing a centralized water safety authority, expanding Department of Health funding for drowning prevention, and requiring warning signage and safety equipment at pools and flood control structures.

Key recommendations include supporting free swimming lessons for all children, building public pools in underserved communities, integrating swim education into school curricula, and ensuring compliance with the Virginia Graeme Baker Pool and Spa Safety Act.

The resolution urges the Governor, Department of Health, Department of Land and Natural Resources, Department of Education, Hawaii Tourism Authority, and county governments to collaborate with the Coalition on implementation.