Maui Ocean Safety & Fire Department History
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Questions and Answers

Which principle emphasizes the importance of adapting to evolving community needs and industry changes?

  • Innovation (correct)
  • Effective Communication
  • Teamwork and Shared Leadership
  • Community Service and Involvement

What is the primary focus of the Ocean Safety Program's budget allocation?

  • Community outreach programs
  • Training and development initiatives
  • Equipment upgrades and maintenance
  • Personnel salaries (correct)

What is the primary reason for emphasizing health and safety within the organization?

  • To comply with legal and regulatory requirements.
  • To improve public perception of the department.
  • To reduce departmental liabilities and insurance costs.
  • To ensure members' well-being and their safe return home. (correct)

How does the organization ensure the best possible service for the community?

<p>Promoting continuous training and professional development. (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What is the significance of community trust to the organization?

<p>It is paramount, as the community members are considered customers, family, and neighbors. (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Which factor is most likely to influence the deployment of a lifeguard tower at Hana?

<p>Whether it is summer/seasonal. (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Which combination of water safety principles ensures the team is prepared for any situation?

<p>Teamwork, shared leadership, and innovation. (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

How far back does the history of lifesaving in America date?

<p>Early 1700's (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What motivated the Board of Supervisors to upgrade fire protection in Maui in 1924?

<p>A series of significant fires that caused substantial damage and fatalities. (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

How were fires initially reported in the County of Maui before the establishment of organized fire units?

<p>Using night watchmen and Old Bells. (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What was the salary of Maui's first Fire Chief, Joseph F. Souza Jr., as set by the Board of Supervisors?

<p>$125 per month (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following best describes the evolution of firefighting in Maui before the establishment of the Wailuku Fire Department?

<p>Primarily volunteer efforts by plantation workers, supplemented by organized paid fire departments in some districts. (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Approximately how many Ocean Safety personnel are estimated to be part of the County of Maui Department of Fire and Public Safety as of 2024?

<p>75 (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What is a key practice the Maui Fire Department (MFD) utilizes to address staffing needs and vacancies?

<p>Holding one recruit class every calendar year for new Firefighter Trainees. (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

According to retired MFD Ocean Safety Chief Colin Yamamoto, what is the estimated impact of rescue tubes on Maui?

<p>25 documented rescues, with potentially many more undocumented. (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following best reflects the Maui Department of Fire and Public Safety's approach to organizational culture?

<p>Recognition that the collective personality and values of its members enhance the organization. (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What was a key motivation behind the formation of the USLA?

<p>Standardizing open water lifesaving practices across the United States. (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Why is standardizing open water lifeguard training more challenging than standardizing pool lifeguard training?

<p>Open water environments vary significantly in hazards and conditions. (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Which organization co-sponsored the 1980 conference at Texas A&M University that aimed to develop guidelines for open water recreational beach standards?

<p>American Camping Association (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

The Sea Grant publication resulting from the 1980 conference provided recommendations on several key areas. Which of the following is an example of an area addressed?

<p>Minimum age of lifeguards (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

How did the USLA directly utilize the findings from the 1980 conference at Texas A&M University?

<p>By developing and publishing guidelines for open water lifeguard training. (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What is the primary function of the United States Lifesaving Association (USLA)?

<p>To serve as a professional association for beach lifeguards and open water rescuers. (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

If a lifeguard is assigned to supervise a beach known for strong rip currents, what type of equipment would be the MOST useful for them to have?

<p>A rescue board and a two-way radio. (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

A newly certified lifeguard is assigned to a beach with a history of shark sightings. Following the USLA's principles, what should be their FIRST action upon starting their shift?

<p>Consult local resources, assess current conditions, and understand established protocols for shark sightings. (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What key factor primarily led to the decline of shipwrecks and the shift in focus for lifesaving services?

<p>The transition from sail power to mechanical power in ships. (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

How did the structure of lifeguard services in the United States differ from that of other countries during the emergence of beach lifeguarding?

<p>U.S. lifeguards were typically employed and organized by local governments, similar to police or fire departments. (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Prior to the 1956 Summer Olympics, what was the primary characteristic of beach lifeguard practices in the United States?

<p>Limited exchange of information, leading to localized and regionally varied practices. (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What was the significance of the 1956 Summer Olympics held in Australia for the Surf Life Saving Association of America (SLSA)?

<p>It provided the first international platform for showcasing and introducing American lifesaving equipment and techniques. (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following pieces of equipment was introduced to Australia as a direct result of the 1956 Summer Olympics and the participation of the Surf Life Saving Association of America?

<p>The Rescue Tube (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What lasting impact did the Malibu Bolsa Surfboards, brought by the American team to the 1956 Summer Olympics in Australia, have on Australian culture?

<p>They sparked revolutionary change in surfing in Australia. (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What organizational element of Surf Life Saving Australia inspired the American team during the 1956 Summer Olympics?

<p>The superior, national organization. (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What was the initial geographical scope of the Surf Life Saving Association of America (SLSA) when it was formed for the 1956 Summer Olympics?

<p>It was limited to lifeguard agencies in Los Angeles County and Los Angeles City. (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following is NOT a primary function of the USLA?

<p>Lobbying for increased funding for coastal development projects. (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

According to the USLA Code of Ethics, what is a lifeguard's responsibility regarding potential hazards in their area of protection?

<p>To take proactive steps to educate the public about the hazards. (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What is a key characteristic of rip currents that makes them dangerous?

<p>Their speeds can rapidly increase, making them difficult to escape. (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Where are rip currents MOST likely to form?

<p>At breaks in sandbars and near structures like jetties or piers. (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What action aligns with a lifeguard demonstrating the USLA Code of Ethics?

<p>Maintaining physical fitness to ensure readiness for rescues. (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

A lifeguard notices a group struggling against a current, moving away from the shore. Based on your understanding, what is the MOST likely cause?

<p>A rip current pulling them offshore. (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

According to the information, what preventative measure aligns with Kalani Vierra's philosophy?

<p>Focusing on protecting vital resources to prevent injuries or deaths. (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Which scenario demonstrates a lifeguard upholding the USLA Code of Ethics regarding public perception?

<p>Treating beach patrons with courtesy and respect, regardless of their behavior. (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Given the provided data for Maui County in 2022, calculate the approximate ratio of beach attendees to rescues performed by lifeguards.

<p>1 rescue per 7,568 beach attendees (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

According to USLA minimum recommended lifeguard equipment standards, which of the following is LEAST likely to be required at every staffed lifeguard post?

<p>A cardiac defibrillator (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

A lifeguard is stationed on a beach in West Maui. Based on the local terms provided, which term best describes the location of this beach?

<p>Leeward (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

If a lifeguard observes a submerged victim and needs to mark the location quickly, what piece of equipment, according to USLA standards, should they have readily accessible?

<p>Marker buoy (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following scenarios would MOST necessitate the use of swim fins by a lifeguard during a rescue, according to the USLA's recommendations?

<p>Rescuing a distressed swimmer caught in a strong current. (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Considering the USLA's recommendations for record keeping and reporting, by what date should Maui County submit its annual statistical data to the USLA statistics coordinator?

<p>March 1 of the following year (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Based on the provided data, what is a key difference between the equipment standards for treating minor injuries versus major medical emergencies at a beach?

<p>A first aid kit adequate to treat both minor and major medical emergencies is needed at each beach area. (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Given the Maui County statistics, and considering that 1 drowning occurred at a guarded beach, what inference can be made about the effectiveness of lifeguard presence?

<p>Lifeguards are generally effective, as the vast majority of drownings occurred at unguarded beaches. (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Flashcards

Maui Rescues

25 documented rescues using life tubes, with estimates of more.

Fire Department History

Firefighting in Maui began in the late 1800s with volunteers.

First Organized Fire Unit

Established on July 1, 1924, known as the Wailuku Fire Department.

Fire Chief Salary

The first Fire Chief's salary was set at $125 a month.

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MFD Personnel

Current staffing includes 282 Fire Operations and 63 Ocean Safety personnel.

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Fire Stations

The department currently has 14 fire stations across Maui and nearby islands.

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Core Values of MFD

The department values Professional Excellence among its members.

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Recruit Classes

The Department holds one recruit class annually for firefighter trainees.

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Pursuit of Excellence

Striving to demonstrate high professional standards in service.

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Community Involvement

Participating in events and services for the community served.

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Effective Communication

Essential for organizational cohesiveness and community service.

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Health and Safety Commitment

Ensuring the well-being of team members is critical to the mission.

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Teamwork

Working collaboratively with shared leadership values.

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Innovation in Operations

Seeking creative solutions to changes in community and industry.

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Ocean Safety Budget

Financial allocation for ocean safety programs and personnel.

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History of USLA

Early lifesaving efforts in America started with launching dories in the 1700s.

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U.S. Lifesaving Service

A service organized to rescue individuals from drowning in the United States.

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Transition to swimming rescues

Shift from saving shipwreck victims to rescuing distressed swimmers in the late 1800s.

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Beach lifeguards

Employees of local governments responsible for managing swimmer safety at beaches.

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Local variations in lifesaving

Diverse lifesaving methods developed regionally among beach lifeguards.

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1956 Summer Olympics

The event where U.S. and Australian lifeguards held an international competition.

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Surf Life Saving Association of America

An organization representing California lifeguards during the 1956 competition.

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Rescue tube

A lifesaving device introduced to Australia, designed in California.

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Malibu surfboards

Surfboards brought by U.S. lifeguards to Australia, revolutionizing local surfing.

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USLA

The United States Lifesaving Association, a nonprofit for beach lifeguards and open water rescuers.

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First National Lifeguard Competition

Held in August 1980 in San Diego, California, marking the start of USLA's annual competitions.

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Primary Goal of USLA

To establish and maintain high standards of professional surf and open water lifesaving for public safety.

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Standardization Challenges

Difficulty in creating uniform safety practices due to varying open water conditions across locations.

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1980 Conference Purpose

To develop guidelines for establishing open water recreational beach standards for lifeguards.

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Major Groups at Conference

Included American Red Cross, YMCA, and U.S. Coast Guard, among others, to discuss safety standards.

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Sea Grant Publication

A document outlining recommendations for lifeguard training, swimming skills, and minimum standards.

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Guidelines for Lifeguard Training

Developed by USLA post-conference to standardize open water lifeguard training practices.

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Beach Attendees 2022

Total number of people attending beaches in Maui County for 2022 was 3,246,460.

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Total Rescues

The total number of rescues reported in Maui County was 429.

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Preventative Actions

There were 57,756 preventative actions taken to ensure safety at the beaches.

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Ungarded Drownings

Seventeen drownings occurred at unguarded beaches in Maui County.

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Guarded Drowning

Only one drowning occurred at a guarded beach in Maui County.

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USLA Equipment Standards

The USLA recommends specific lifeguard equipment, including rescue flotation devices and oxygen supply.

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Windward Side

The windward side of Maui faces the prevailing trade winds, located from north to east.

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Leeward Side

The leeward side of Maui is sheltered from the wind, located from south to west.

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Kalani Vierra

President of the Hawaiian Lifeguard Association.

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Lifeguard Ethics

Guidelines lifeguards follow to ensure safety.

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Rip Currents

Water currents flowing away from shore at surf beaches.

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Danger of Rip Currents

Rip currents can pull swimmers away and increase in speed.

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Preventing Accidents

Efforts made by lifeguards to avoid incidents before they happen.

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Lifeguard Readiness

Lifeguards maintain high fitness standards to perform effectively.

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Public Education

Lifeguards inform the public about aquatic hazards.

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Study Notes

Maui Ocean Safety Bureau (OSB) History

  • OSB was implemented as a division within Maui County Department of Parks & Recreation in 1977
  • In 2016, Maui County Council integrated OSB into the Department of Fire and Public Safety
  • OSB has conducted annual USLA Performance Tests since 1995
  • OSB was certified by USLA in 2012

Ocean Safety Officer (OSO) Role & Responsibilities

  • OSOs perform over 800 rescues annually throughout Maui County
  • Work is hazardous, involving responding to drownings, injuries, and encounters with marine creatures
  • Responsibilities include helping tourists, surfers, and locals in various situations such as rip currents, and injuries.

Fire Department History

  • Maui County firefighting began in the late 1800s, initially volunteer-based
  • Fire prevention methods included bucket brigades, night watchmen, and old bells
  • Significant fires in 1924, like the Pauwela Cannery fire and others, highlighted the need for improved fire protection
  • The Wailuku Fire Department was established in 1924, becoming the first organized salaried fire department in Maui.

USLA and Maui OSB

  • The United States Lifesaving Association (USLA) was instrumental in developing and standardizing lifeguarding practices.
  • Maui County participates in USLA competitions.
  • USLA members contribute to national organizations such as the California lifeguards
  • The Hawai’i Ocean Safety Bureau is part of the larger USLA network

Ocean Safety Demographics & Budgets

  • Maui has 14 stations.
  • Over 70 ocean professionals staff lifeguard towers.
  • The number of lifeguards has increased recently, and will likely continue to increase.
  • There are also plans to add another tower in Pu'u Keka'a (where most drownings occur).
  • Salaries and equipment budget are mentioned, totaling over $7,000,000.

Rip Currents

  • Rip currents are currents flowing away from the shore.
  • They form at breaks in sandbars, near piers, etc.
  • Rip currents are dangerous because of their strong pulling effect, which can pull swimmers out to sea
  • Statistics show that rip currents are a leading cause of rescues.
  • Over 80% of rescues are from rip currents
  • Recognizing rip currents involves looking for churning water, a different color than regular water, or debris moving away from the shore

Lifeguard Training and Equipment

  • Lifeguard equipment is standardized by USLA
  • First-aid kits, masks, snorkel, binoculars, rescue flotation devices (RFD) and other equipment are needed
  • Training includes rescue techniques, emergency response protocols and procedures.

Interview Questions and Goals

  • Interview questions focus on the applicant's experience, training, knowledge of rescue procedures, and the ability to remain calm in stressful situations.
  • Candidates focus on physical training, mock interviews, and using online resources to improve knowledge.

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Related Documents

Maui Ocean Safety Bureau (OSB) Study Guide 2024 PDF

Description

Overview of the Maui Ocean Safety Bureau's history, including its integration into the Department of Fire and Public Safety. Also covers Ocean Safety Officer roles, responsibilities, and the history of the Maui County Fire Department.

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