HFD launches helicopters to assist kayakers off Waipio Valley

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The Hawaii Fire Department launched two helicopters Sunday to assist a pair of kayakers in distress off Waipio Valley.

The department responded around 11:10 a.m. to a dropped 911 call on Muliwai trail in Waipio Valley. During the response of rescue personnel, dispatch stated the dropped 911 call was for a kayaker in distress.

By the time the personnel arrived on the beach about 19 minutes later, one of the two kayakers had made its way to shore. Chopper 1 landed on the beach to talk to bystanders and were told the pair got separated and the second kayak was making its way toward shore. Chopper 2 maintained an eye on the second kayaker on they made it shore.

The department said neither of kayakers suffered injuries.