Enjoy Maeda Point, but be smart, safe Published Aug. 21, 2008 By Staff Sgt. Christopher Marasky 18th Wing Public Affairs KADENA AB, Japan -- Military members and their families assigned to Okinawa bases have the opportunity to visit numerous scenic and historic locations around the island in their off-duty time. Maeda Point is one such location which offers visitors an array of possibilities -- everything from swimming, snorkeling and Scuba diving to just enjoying the beautiful scenery. But along with this natural habitat comes the need for visitors to remain safe and to obey the local rules. Water safety is critically important at Maeda Point with its strong current, and anyone who decides to venture into the water there should be a strong swimmer. Maeda Point does not employ lifeguards, which means that people who get into trouble in the water may not have immediate help. "You want to make sure that you're a pretty strong swimmer if you're going out there, otherwise it might not be safe," said Tanisha Moore, a local travel guide with Kadena's Information, Tickets and Tours program. "And it's very important to use the buddy or wingman system." Another way to stay safe is to refrain from cliff jumping. Not only is the activity prohibited, but it is dangerous at Maeda Point. Although the area may look like a harmless and fun place to jump, the water below the cliffs is filled with abrasive coral and can cause serious injury. "Cliff jumping is a particular area of safety concern," said Master Sgt. Anthony Johnson, 18th Security Forces operations superintendent. Cliff jumpers not only put themselves at risk, he added, but they present a serious safety hazard for anyone in the water below. Although not commonly seen as a safety hazard, the presence of glass bottles is an issue of concern for visitors both in the water and on land. While drinks are not prohibited at Maeda Point, the use of glass bottles is. Servicemembers are reminded to use plastic bottles. Another area that military members and their families should be mindful of is parking at Maeda Point. Airmen and their families are reminded to use the proper paid parking areas as opposed to parking in the street, which causes safety and traffic concerns. To help ensure that everyone who visits Maeda Point is fully aware of the rules, members of the 18th Security Forces Squadron are working with the Kadena Town Police and Maeda Point staff on some ways to help educate people. They will be working with local officials to place better English-language signs at the entrance and surrounding areas that outline the rules of Maeda point. As guests in Okinawa, it's important for members of the 18th Wing, as well as other military bases around Okinawa to conduct themselves in an appropriate manner while visiting the local areas said Sergeant Johnson. "We need to be mindful of the Japanese culture and respectful of not only the Japanese people but others as well," he said. "Our relationship with the Okinawan people has a direct impact on the mission we are fulfilling."