[Reefwalker]

For Immediate Release

Guam’s water recreation community rallies for ocean safety
- Organizations collaborate to present water safety outreach event -

(Barrigada, Guam –– Wednesday, Aug. 15, 2012) Several of Guam’s water recreation organizations and public safety agencies are rallying together to present the first ever ocean safety public outreach event on Saturday, Aug. 25 at Matapang Beach in Tumon. Organizers of the event aim to raise awareness among beach goers and water recreation enthusiasts on the hazards of the ocean and how to be more prepared in the water. The program will be presented by various representatives of different water recreation organizations including surfers, stand up paddlers, outrigger canoers, swimmers, rescue trainers, lifeguards, and public safety agencies.

The one-day free public event will feature a presentation on basic beach safety, water rescue exhibition, CPR, open water swimming demonstration, outrigger paddling demonstration, surfing etiquettes, rescue water craft operation and a friendly exhibition race by the stand up paddling community. The organizers will end the day’s program with an in memoriam lei-laying ceremony in the bay to honor those who lost their lives in the ocean.

“This is a collaborative effort among water recreation organizations to share our experience and knowledge on how to enjoy water activities in a responsible manner. There have been too many incidences in Guam waters. We are taking this initiative to encourage more proactive actions by the ocean-going public,” said Andy Lee, a representative of Guam Watermen’s Club, one of the organizing bodies spearheading the program.

The water safety outreach event is organized and presented by Guam Watermen’s Club, Guahan Napu Inc., K38 Micronesia, Greater Pacific Aquatics, and Marianas Paddling and Racing Association with participation from American Red Cross and Guam Lifeguards, Guam Police Department Beach Patrol and NOAA (National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration). Holiday Resort and Spa will provide a special $5 lunch plates at the event during the lunch break.

For more information, contact Andy Lee at 689-8541 or e-mail to Andy.Lee@lotussurfshop.com