LIHUE – Mayor Derek S.K. Kawakami presented a proclamation for Wildfire Awareness Month on Thursday to personnel from the Kauai Fire Department, Barking Sands Fire and Emergency Services Department Chief Oric Kuapahi, Lihue Aircraft Rescue Fire Fighting personnel, and a representative from the Hawaii Wildfire Management Organization.
While the awareness month is over, the risk of wildfires continue throughout the summer months.
“Mahalo to the Kauai Fire Department, the Hawaii Wildfire Management Organization, and all of our first responder partners for your unwavering commitment to protecting our island. Your dedication, preparation and partnership are what keep our communities safe and resilient in the face of growing wildfire threats,” said Kawakami.
The Kauai Fire Department advises the public to prepare for the case of an emergency and remain vigilant throughout the dry fire season.
“Wildfire preparedness is a shared responsibility. By working together with clarity, compassion and urgency, we can make Kauai more resilient and better prepared for the challenges ahead,” said Kauai Fire Department Chief Michael Gibson.
The Kauai Fire Department is offering the following 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 Kauai Police Department Dispatch at 808-241-1711 or 911 if it is an emergency.
The following provides a list of important resources on emergency preparedness:
• Kauai Emergency Management Agency – kauai.gov/kema
• National Weather Service – 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 (WENS), the county’s emergency notification service, visit www.kauai.gov/KEMA and click “WENS.” You may also call the Kauai Emergency Management Agency at 808-241-1800.
