Several forecasted days of dry and increasingly windy weather make it especially important to exercise caution and take appropriate measures to prevent wildfires while residents, businesses and contractors continue cleanup and recovery efforts in the aftermath of Hurricane Lowell.
National Weather Service is monitoring Hurricane Nolo, which is expected to pass south of Kauaʻi this weekend, but it could still bring gusty winds to the island.
“Residents, businesses and crews have made steady progress on recovery since Lowell, and we want that work to continue safely,” said Kauaʻi Emergency Management Agency Administrator Elton Ushio.
What starts as a small spark among dry brush and storm debris could become a raging blaze that can spread quickly.
“Cleanup work often involves equipment that can throw sparks or run hot, and everyday yard work can start a brush fire in these conditions,” said Kauaʻi Fire Department Chief Michael Gibson. “Work early in the day, keep water close by and never leave a hot engine near dry grass. If a fire starts, call 9-1-1 right away.”
Ushio said every fire prevented keeps the island’s first responders available to support recovery.
“We are also closely monitoring [Hurricane] Nolo,” he added. “Winds from this system could make fire conditions worse, so finish cleanup safely and secure any loose debris around your home before the weekend.”
Kauaʻi Fire Department recommends the following measures when clearing brush and debris:
- Work in the early morning when it is cooler and winds are lighter. Avoid using mowers, trimmers and chainsaws during hot, dry, windy afternoons.
- Keep a charged garden hose, bucket of water, shovel or fire extinguisher nearby.
- Clear dry grass from your work area and watch for sparks when blades strike rocks or metal.
- Make sure chainsaws and small engines are in good repair with working spark arrestors.
- Let gas-powered equipment cool before refueling and refuel on bare ground or pavement away from dry vegetation.
- Do not park or idle vehicles on dry grass. Hot exhaust parts can ignite vegetation.
- Wear eye and ear protection, gloves and sturdy boots when using a chainsaw; never cut alone and use caution with downed trees and branches that might be bent or under tension.
- Check for smoldering material before leaving a work area.
- Do not burn green waste or storm debris.
- Stay at least 30 feet away from downed power lines and anything touching them. Report them to Kauaʻi Island Utility Cooperative at 808-246-4300 or call 9-1-1 if there is immediate danger.
- Secure or dispose of cut branches and loose debris ahead of any wind so they do not become flying hazards.
Green waste can be taken to county transfer stations. Click here or call 808-241-4841 for hours and size limits.
Call 9-1-1 immediately if a fire sparks. Do not try to fight a spreading fire.
Sign up for the county’s Everbridge notification system to receive emergency alerts: visit the Kauaʻi Emergency Management website and click “Notification Services,” text “KAUAIEMA” to 888777 or call the agency at 808-241-1800.
Contact Kauaʻi Fire Prevention Bureau at 808-241-4985 or visit the bureau website for additional information about fire safety.
