Wildfire outreach event scheduled this week on Kaua‘i

Wildfire preparedness outreach efforts continue in Kaua‘i’s communities this week with an event scheduled on Wednesday.

Members of the Kaua‘i Emergency Management Agency will be in Kaumakani at Kaumakani Camp and Kaumakani Avenue from 8:30 a.m. to noon as part of a series of initiatives planned for communities across the island that are vulnerable to wildfires.

“Preparedness is one of the most powerful tools we have to keep our families and communities safe,” said Mayor Derek S.K. Kawakami. “Wildfire risks are real, as we saw with the Hanapēpē-Kaumakani wildfire last year. By coming together as neighbors and staying informed, we can help protect each other.”

As part of this outreach, officials from various county and partner agencies will be canvassing Kaumakani Camp, going door-to-door to share information on the “Be Ready, Be Set, Go Now!” evacuation levels, how to create evacuation plans, prepare emergency go-kits, and stay informed during rapidly changing wildfire conditions.

“Every minute counts during a wildfire,” said Elton Ushio, Administrator of KEMA. “Our goal with these door-to-door efforts is to reach people directly and ensure they know what steps to take before, during, and after a wildfire. Being ready and having a plan can save lives.”

Wildfires can move fast and become dangerous in a matter of moments, said Kaua‘i Fire Chief Michael Gibson.

“If you feel unsafe, don’t wait — evacuate right away,” Gibson said. “It’s always better to leave early than risk getting caught in a dangerous situation. Our priority is keeping our residents and responders safe.”

An outreach event is scheduled for Waimea later this year.

To view the “Be Ready, Be Set, Go Now!” evacuation levels, visit https://www.kauai.gov/files/assets/public/v/1/office-of-the-mayor/documents/be-ready-be-set-go-now.pdf.