Kaua‘i Fire Department urges public to be vigilant as risk for fire weather increases

The risk for heightened fire weather will likely increase throughout this month and September as drought conditions are expected to expand and intensify.

An August through November fire weather outlook issued Aug. 1 by the Geographic Area Coordination Centers, a partnership between federal and state wildland fire agencies including the National Weather Service and Hawai‘i Volcanoes National Park on the Big Island, says enhanced trade winds combined with abundant fuels will provide the right ingredients for large fire growth, especially in leeward areas of the state.

There is an above-normal significant fire potential through October until the wet season begins in November.

Three large fires have already happened in the state this summer, including two on Kaua‘i and one on Maui, two of which grew to 1,000 acres or more.

“During our wildfire responses in July, our community was incredibly fortunate,” said the Kaua‘i Fire Department. “The Hanapēpē-Kaumakani fire came very close to homes near Moi Road in Hanapēpē and Kaumakani Village. Through the brave actions of our firefighters and partners, no injuries were reported, and just a single unoccupied structure was damaged.

“Should critical fire conditions have been in effect that day, we may have encountered catastrophic outcomes, including the loss of homes and lives. We are urging the public to help us prevent such an event from occurring.”

In anticipation of additional fire weather watches and fed flag warnings, the department urges the community to be vigilant and is offering safety guidance to prevent wildfires.

A fire weather watch means warm temperatures, very low humidity and strong winds can combine to produce possible increased risks of fire danger.

A red flag warning is issued when critical fire conditions occur or are occurring. Fires during red flag warnings can grow very quickly.

The Fire Prevention Bureau offers the following advice and tips:

• Remove dead vegetation and other flammable materials, especially within the first 5 feet of the home.
• Invasive grasses such as guinea grass and koa haole overgrow when unmanaged, creating a significant fire hazard. Weed them often and consider replanting with low-lying, drought–tolerant, native ground cover.
• Remove flammable materials from decks, porches, lanai and underneath the house. Common flammables include scrap wood, firewood and combustible furniture.
• Keep your lawn hydrated and shorter than 4 inches tall around the home. Do not mow in the day’s heat or when the wind blows; never mow in dry vegetation.
• Have an escape route to a clear area safe from rapid-fire spread.
• Report any possible fires, including signs of smoke or flames, by calling Kaua‘i Police Department dispatch at 808-241-1711 or 9-1-1 if it is an emergency.

For more tips to prevent wildfires, click here and download the “Hawai‘i Wildland Management Organization Fire Action Guide” by clicking “Wildland Fire Action Guide & Safety Tips.”

Residents and businesses can also follow local and government media and broadcast channels for the most up-to-date information.

Here are some essential resources for emergency preparedness:

• Kaua‘i Emergency Management Agency: www.kauai.gov/kema.
• National Weather Service: www.weather.gov/hfo or automated weather line at 808-245-6001.
• Road and closure conditions: 808-241-1725.

To sign up for the Wireless Emergency Notification System, click here and and then click “WENS.” You can also call the Kaua‘i Emergency Management Agency at 808-241-1800.

The Kōke‘e fires are thought to have been intentionally set. The investigation remains ongoing. Police continue to pursue all leads.

Anyone with information about these incidents is encouraged to contact Lt. Kennison Nagahisa at 808-241-1705 or via email at knagahisa@kauai.gov. Those who want to remain anonymous can call Crime Stoppers Kauaʻi at 808-246-8300.