The Hawaiian Lifeguard
Sale price
$36.99
Regular price $44.99
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The Hawaiian Lifeguard
Sale price
$36.99
Regular price $44.99
The Hawaiian Lifeguard Book Series is an educational project designed to increase ocean and water safety awareness, address the fact that drowning is the leading cause of death of Hawai’i youth ages 1-15, and raise childhood interest in becoming a future Lifeguard. The story follows Keala, the daughter of the famed Lifeguard and waterman, Kalani.The series introduces Hawaiian cultural values through their bond, focusing on Kuleana (sacred responsibility) and family (ʻOhana). Keala and Kalani are joined by colorful characters, including their ʻOhana and their ʻAumākua (guardian spirits): Kahiau (Honu/Green Sea Turtle) and Nanea (Naiʻa/Bottlenose Dolphin).The story begins at Hanalei Bay, Kaua‘i, where Keala wonders what her father, a Hawaiian Lifeguard, does all day. Kalani invites her to come to work with him. The next morning, Kalani takes Keala to Keālia Beach, Kaua‘i, for Lifeguard Training, where they jog and swim, showing Keala the importance of Health and Fitness for emergencies. During training, Nanea and Kahiau observe that the ocean looks rough and the current feels strong, signaling dangerous conditions.Kalani uses the opportunity to teach Keala vital ocean safety knowledge, including how to handle Rip Currents. He explains that Rip Currents are strong, narrow flows of water that pull away from the shore. He instructs that if caught, one must “Don’t Panic and Go with the Flow,” wave their hands for help, and make their way back to shore when the current releases them.The education turns critical the following day at Po‘ipū Beach when an emergency occurs: a sailboat is in distress and is going under. Kalani quickly calls 911 and races out with the rescue ski. He reaches the distressed sailors, tells them to "Stay Calm," and rescues them, noting his relief that they wore lifejackets.Keala witnesses her father’s successful rescue and realizes that Kalani is more than just a Hawaiian Lifeguard; he is a “Real-Life Superhero” who puts the lives of other people before his own. She learns that performing rescues requires a lot of Practice and Knowledge of the Ocean, and that Lifeguards must know First Aid and Take Action to prevent trouble.Inspired by her experiences, Keala tells her Dad, “When I grow up, I want to be a Lifeguard like you!”. The series’ conclusion will feature Keala as a young adult choosing to become a lifeguard, thereby taking on the Kuleana (sacred responsibility) of protecting residents and visitors and continuing her father’s legacy. The series concludes with the broader message that “We are all Lifeguards in some way in our daily lives,” sharing the Kuleana to ensure the safety of our communities and educate everyone on the hidden dangers of the waters.