A Michigan woman is suing the Hawaii Tourism Authority, alleging that her husband's death from snorkeling could have been prevented by an awareness campaign about Rapid Onset Pulmonary Edema (ROPE), a deadly condition that fills the lungs with bodily fluids, causing hypoxia and sudden death.
Patti Johnson's life was shattered when her husband, Ray, drowned while snorkeling in Maui in February 2022. However, Ray's last moments did not resemble a traditional drowning. Instead, his death was later attributed to Rapid Onset Pulmonary Edema (ROPE), a condition that occurs when the lungs fill with bodily fluids, reducing their ability to deliver oxygen and leading to sudden death.
ROPE deaths are often mistaken for traditional drownings, as both involve fluid in the lungs and a lack of oxygen. However, unlike drowning, ROPE victims do not aspirate water and often suffer a sudden onset of symptoms, including difficulty breathing, weakness, and unconsciousness.
Between 2012 and 2021, a staggering 184 tourists died in snorkeling accidents in Hawaii, compared to just 20 local residents. This disproportionate number of tourist fatalities raises concerns about a lack of awareness and preventive measures being taken by the tourism industry.
A number of risk factors can contribute to ROPE deaths, including the physiological effects of recent air travel. Airplanes are pressurized at an equivalent of up to 8,500 feet elevation, which can affect the permeability of the lung's membranes and predispose individuals to ROPE.
Despite the knowledge of ROPE risks, Hawaii's tourism authority and other groups have allegedly done little to warn tourists. Johnson's lawsuit alleges that these organizations have not prominently featured warnings about ROPE on websites, brochures, or videos.
Waiting three days after disembarking from a plane before snorkeling can significantly reduce the risk of ROPE. Additionally, using a simple snorkel with less resistance to inhalation is recommended.
Patti Johnson has taken it upon herself to educate tourists about ROPE. She distributes cards with information on the condition and urges people to wait a few days before snorkeling after flying.
In an attempt to address snorkeling safety concerns, the Hawaii House of Representatives proposed a bill that would require first responders to record data on the types of snorkels used by tourists who drowned. However, the bill ultimately failed to pass.
The Hawaii Tourism Authority, Hawaii Visitors and Convention Bureau, the Fairmont Kea Lani Maui, and Accor Management have remained silent regarding the pending lawsuit and allegations of negligence in informing tourists about ROPE.
For prospective snorkelers, the website www.snorkelsafetystudy.org provides valuable information on ROPE prevention. By staying informed and taking appropriate precautions, travelers can enjoy the beauty of Hawaii's underwater world without risking their safety.
