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Wing policy addresses water safety
Posted 6/2/2011 Updated 6/21/2011
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Commentary by Tech. Sgt. Brandon Cruz
35th Fighter Wing Safety Office
6/2/2011 - MISAWA AIR BASE, JAPAN -- The weather in Northern Japan is getting warmer, and it can be tempting to jump into the Pacific Ocean, just minutes away from the base. Before you get in the water there are host national policies and Misawa Air Base policies you must be familiar with.
Due to powerful rip currents in the Pacific Ocean and the recent devastating tsunami which hit the east coast of Japan, the 35th Fighter Wing policy and Japanese laws prohibit recreational water activities along the east coast of Japan. The restricted area is from the Shimokita Peninsula down to Tokyo. However, people can still swim and play in Mutsu Bay, local lakes and inlets and authorized designated swimming areas and areas frequented by the Japanese public.
In Japan, an authorized "designated swimming area" is roped off with buoys and a life guard; which must be present at all times. Northern Japan has three areas designated for swimming: Misawa Base Beach, and two areas south of Hachinohe --Seagull Beach and Shirahama Beach. Miss Veedol Beach (Misawa Pier) was previously approved for swimming but is currently closed due to damage sustained during the March earthquake and tsunami. The official swimming season in Japan starts around mid-July and ends at the end of August. During this time a lifeguard will be on duty.
If you are a surfer, body boarder, windsurfer, jet skier or kayaker, then you must ensure that the area is used by the Japanese public. The majority of off-limit areas are usually marked with signs in Japanese and not in English. If you pull up to a beach and you see signs with bold lettering (usually red) in Kanji on it or the entrance is roped off; then you are probably in an unauthorized area. If you are ever in doubt, "stay out" and go to another location where local nationals are enjoying themselves.
Prior to performing any aquatic activities, everyone must use personal risk management, to include checking the weather, ensuring you have the proper personal protective equipment, knowing your limits and not letting peer pressure get the best of you. Let your supervisor know that you are doing these activities. Regardless of age, 35th FW personnel conducting high risk activities will complete a PACAF CARES survey and tenant units will use their individual unit's high risk program.
The Pacific Ocean is an unforgiving beast. Enjoy water activities this summer, but remember to "Have a Plan Before you Leave Land" and always leave it with a responsible person.
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