Hawaii may seem like a utopia, but there is still violence, particularly in places with plenty of tourists. The good news is that you may simply prevent yourself from being a victim by using common sense and taking measures.
In comparison to the national average, Hawaii’s violent crime rate in 2024 is expected to stay low, according to SafeWise. Compared to the national average of 4.0 violent crime events per 1,000 inhabitants, the state has reported roughly 2.5 instances.
In comparison to 2023, when the rate was somewhat higher, this indicates a decrease. Hawaii News Now noted that there have been some unsettling patterns in Honolulu, such as a rise in rape cases.
There were 287 violent crime occurrences recorded for the first half of 2024, including 20 manslaughter cases and 22 murders.
Total Crime Rate
In Hawaii, the overall crime rate is 3,127 incidents per 100,000 population. According to Steve Goldstein, property-related crimes account for about 91% of all offenses, making theft, burglary, and vandalism the most common types of criminal activity.
Crime Statistics for Honolulu (First Half of 2024)
Hawaii’s largest city, Honolulu, observed varying trends in the categories of violent crime. There has been a tiny decrease in aggravated assaults (-7.7%) and a minor decline in sexual offenses (-2.0%).
The Honolulu Police Department indicates that robbery rates have decreased by roughly 6.7%, showing a favorable trend.
Honolulu’s Crime Categories, Year-to-Date (2024)
The Honolulu Police Department also stated that three prominent categories of offenses in Honolulu are narcotics offenses, counterfeiting, and burglaries.
As of now in 2024, there have been 1,188 burglaries, compared to 1,501 drug-related and narcotics-related occurrences.
The Water
The ocean typically comes to mind when someone thinks of Hawaii. It seems to be begging you to take a dip because it’s warm and blue. The ocean may be joyful and soothing, but if you’re not careful, it can also be rather powerful.
RIP Currents and Powerful Waves
Famous waves can be found in Hawaii, particularly on Oahu’s North Shore, where surfers swarm to ride enormous swells. However, if you’re not a confident swimmer, you should watch such waves from the shore instead of going in the water.
One of the major hazards is rip currents, which can surprise you even in seemingly calm waters. Once, in seemingly calm conditions, I remember going into the ocean, only to be forced back to shore by an unexpected tug.
Beach Hazards and Hazardous Shorebreak Conditions
Even where the waves aren’t enormous, the shore itself can be hazardous. When waves crash straight onto the sand, they create shorebreaks, which can be extremely powerful and deadly.
You understand what I mean if you have ever seen someone get tossed over by a wave right at the coast. Shorebreaks have been known to cause severe injuries in certain cases, including as fractured bones or even spinal damage.
Strong shorebreaks are a good place to avoid swimming, especially if you’re not accustomed to the area.
Risks of Drowning
Sadly, drowning is a serious problem in Hawaii, with many of the incidents involving visitors who are unaccustomed to the water’s conditions.
If you intend to swim or snorkel, go slowly, stay close to the coast, and utilize flotation devices if you’re not confident in your swimming abilities.
At Kalama Beach Park, a new lifeguard tower
In order to improve beachgoer safety, Kalama Beach Park in Kailua constructed a much-needed lifeguard tower. According to Khon2, the tower is anticipated to improve lifeguard performance and offer more assistance for local water safety.
Rescues by Ocean Safety During South Swell
StarAdvertiser said that in June 2024, Honolulu Ocean Safety saved 16 persons and conducted over 2,000 preventative steps during a strong surf generated by a south swell. This emphasizes how crucial it is to have careful observation and take precautions when there are such situations.
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Health Hazards
Hawaii’s tropical climate produces breathtaking scenery, but there are certain hazards that might catch visitors off guard, particularly if they’re unprepared.
Coral cut infections
While stunning, coral reefs may be sharp. Infections are a genuine possibility due to the warm waters of the ocean, which can make getting a coral cut an excruciating ordeal.
Any cuts or scrapes should always be treated right away by using a disinfectant and covering the injury. Even better, if you plan to swim close to coral, wear protection gear like water shoes.
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Stings from jellyfish
A box jellyfish could unexpectedly show up at the seashore. Their stings can be anything from bothersome to fatal, and they usually appear a week or so after the full moon. Fortunately, warning signs about jellyfish are posted at many beaches.
If you do receive a sting, vinegar can help relieve the pain until you can receive the necessary medical attention. Observing a fellow beachgoer be stung and run to the lifeguard station taught me this tip.
Issues Related to Heat and Sunburn
Hawaii has very strong sun, and it’s simple to misjudge how rapidly you can burn. Wearing a hat, drinking plenty of water, and frequently lathering up are essential—especially if you want to spend the day at the beach or trekking through the verdant parks of the islands.
Read Also: The Most Dangerous Hikes in Mount Rainier National Park
How to Keep Yourself Safe While Visiting Hawaii?
- Respect the Ocean: Don’t underestimate the waves, swim at lifeguarded beaches, and heed posted warnings.
- Wear protective clothing, drink plenty of water, and apply sunscreen to protect yourself from the sun.
- Recognize Your Environment: Be cautious and mindful when driving or in crowded places, and make sure your possessions are safe.
- Be Aware of Nature: Hawaii’s natural beauty can be misleading; honor the might of its volcanoes, seas, and fauna.
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