AHAHOLA — Multiple brush fires thrust the Kaua‘i Fire Department (KFD) into action on Thursday afternoon in Anahola.
It was all hands on deck as firefighters with the Kaiakea and Kapa‘a fire stations, along with the Kaua‘i Police Department, Rescue 3, Air 1, Tanker 1 and the on-duty battalion chief all responded to a 911 call shortly after 5:40 p.m. on May 2 to fires near Ehukai Road.
Once on the scene, firefighters quickly extinguished three small brush fires.
“However, a 4.3-acre brush fire was also reported in an area called ‘Crack 14,’ near the ocean,” the KFD said. “After Air 1 dropped approximately 20 water drops on the fire, firefighters used 3,200 gallons of foam and water to extinguish the blaze.”
The scene was cleared at around 9:50 p.m. with no injuries or damage to structures reported. Arson is suspected in the fires.
“Arson is a serious crime that carries penalties of imprisonment and fines,” said Assistant Chief Kalani Ke in a statement. “Intentionally setting fires is a threat to community safety and the environment. We urge the public to remain vigilant and report any suspicious activity immediately by calling 911.”
Kaiakea firefighters returned to the scene shortly after midnight to monitor the area for any hotspots and to ensure the fire was completely extinguished. KFD said a total of five acres was scorched.
“Thank you to our first responders for taking action last night and to our community members who reported the incident. With this fire under investigation, the community must remain vigilant in our efforts to prevent brush fires,” said KFD Chief Michael Gibson in a statement.
Anyone with further information is asked to call KPD Dispatch at 808-241-1711. Residents wishing to remain anonymous can call CrimeStopper Kauai at 808-246-8300.
