The loss of Clifford Rigsbee, a firefighter and nationally ranked triathlete, is a sad reminder of the hazards faced by public safety officers in the line of duty.

Rigsbee, 63, was pulled unconscious from the ocean during rescue watercraft training near Diamond Head on Tuesday. He died on Thursday at Straub Medical Center.

An investigation is underway, but in the meantime, he will be mourned by his colleagues and loved ones. He also should be mourned by all of us, whom he faithfully served.

Newbie caregivers will be getting a little help

The problem of hospitals releasing patients in need of serious caregiving to families who really don’t know anything about what that might entail should become a thing of the past, now that Gov. David Ige has signed a bill called the CARE Act.

Hawaii on Thursday joined 26 other states in requiring hospitals to explain and demonstrate medical and nursing duties to family members who will be responsible for such patients once they are discharged.

Taking care of an ailing or incapacitated family member on a 24/7 basis, often for an indeterminate period, is no easy task. Being given some pointers by medical authorities is bound to make the task a little easier.