12-08-2008, 06:49 AM
Those people in the picture were taking illegal early morning tours conducted by Arnotts out of Hilo. Since being repetedly denied permission by Civil defense and even Mayor Billy, Arnotts has stopped offering the tours.
It's curious that the area they are standing on is subject to collapse, and in fact recently had an overnight bench collapse. (The entry is back behind the point). If these folks were in the same spot during a bench collapse, they would be vulnerable to falling red hot debris, and or steam and gas explosions.
Another interesting point the article brought up, was Shane Turpin's statement that the boat doesn't go closer than 100 yards in spite of the author's and hundreds of witnesses seeing it just a few feet away. It's also alarming that he travels into the plume and compares it to vinegar. I'm sure Shane is eager to cover his butt if and when there is an investigation or incedent, but I think his attitude displays a great deal of unprofessionalism.
Why does he insist that he's 100 yards off (with a wink)?
Because that's a safe distance?
Because that's an insurance requirement?
Because that's stipulated by the coast Guard?
I don't know.
I wish Lava Tours all the best, but I just don't understand why they can't conduct their tours in a safe, honest, and profesional manner, instead of lying about their SOP.
They owe their customers nothing less.
It's curious that the area they are standing on is subject to collapse, and in fact recently had an overnight bench collapse. (The entry is back behind the point). If these folks were in the same spot during a bench collapse, they would be vulnerable to falling red hot debris, and or steam and gas explosions.
Another interesting point the article brought up, was Shane Turpin's statement that the boat doesn't go closer than 100 yards in spite of the author's and hundreds of witnesses seeing it just a few feet away. It's also alarming that he travels into the plume and compares it to vinegar. I'm sure Shane is eager to cover his butt if and when there is an investigation or incedent, but I think his attitude displays a great deal of unprofessionalism.
Why does he insist that he's 100 yards off (with a wink)?
Because that's a safe distance?
Because that's an insurance requirement?
Because that's stipulated by the coast Guard?
I don't know.
I wish Lava Tours all the best, but I just don't understand why they can't conduct their tours in a safe, honest, and profesional manner, instead of lying about their SOP.
They owe their customers nothing less.