LIHU’E — Forecasters with the National Weather Service (NWS) are warning residents of red flag weather conditions for the remainder of August and through September.
In the midst of the heightened fire weather watches and red flag warnings, it is important that every individual is vigilant and aware of safety guidlines to prevent any future wildfires.
A fire weather watch means warm temperatures along with very low humidity and stronger winds, which can combine to produce possible increased risks of fire danger.
A red flag warning is issued when critical fire conditions will occur or are occurring.
“During our wildfire responses in July, our community was incredibly fortunate,” said Kaua’i Fire Department (KFD) Chief Michael Gibson.
The Hanapepe-Kaumakani Fire came very close to homes near Moi Road in Hanapepe and Kaumakani Village.
“Through the brave actions of our firefighters and partners, no injuries were reported, and just a single unoccupied structure was damaged,” Gibson said.
“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.”
The KFD’s Fire Prevention Bureau offered the following tips and safety advice, so that the community can be more empowered in the event of a future wildfire.
• It is important the community is aware and remove dead vegetation and other flammable materials, especially within the first 5 feet of the home.
• Dry invasive grasses, such as guinea grass and koa haole, overgrown when unmanaged, create 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.
• Remember to keep the 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 a plan and a escape route to a clear area safe from rapid-fire spread.
• Report any possible fires, including signs of smoke or flames, by calling KPD Dispatch at 808-241-1711 or 911 if it is an emergency.
For more tips to prevent wildfires, visit Kauai.gov/fire 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.
The following a list of essential resources on 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 (WENS), the county’s emergency notification service, visit www.kauai.gov/KEMA and click “WENS.” You may also call the Kaua‘i Emergency Management Agency at 808-241-1800.
The Koke‘e fires are believed to have been intentionally set. The investigation remains ongoing, as police continue to pursue all leads.
Anyone with information regarding these incidents is encouraged to contact Lt. Kennison Nagahisa at 808-241-1705 or knagahisa@kauai.gov.
People wishing to remain anonymous can provide information by calling Crime Stoppers Kauaʻi at 808-246-8300. Crime Stoppers Kaua‘i offers cash rewards of up to $1,000 to anyone providing information that leads to an arrest.
