RES 333 Draft 01 2022-2024 - Laserfiche WebLink

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EXHIBIT B: PROACTIVE & COMPREHENSIVE PREVENTION STRATEGY Preparation, as defined by the Department of Homeland Security and the Federal Emergency Management Agency, involves "a continuous cycle of planning, organizing, training, equipping, exercising, evaluating, and taking corrective action." This aim is to ensure seamless coordination during incident responses. The National Cohesive Wildland Fire Management Strategy, often referred to as the Cohesive Strategy, advocates for communities to adopt a dynamic approach to planning, responding to, and recovering from wildland fires. It provides a structured framework for discussions, efforts, and goals related to wildfires. The strategy is organized into three key categories, aligning with national priorities and funding opportunities: 1. Fire -Adapted Communities 2. Resilient Landscapes Safe and Effective Wildfire Response It is strongly recommended that vulnerable, at -risk communities take proactive steps, such as developing a Community Wildfire Protection Plan (CWPP) and obtaining Firewise Community certification, in collaboration with organizations like the Hawaii Wildfire Management Organization and the Big Island Wildfire Coordinating Group. A comprehensive CWPP should encompass a well-defined evacuation plan, involving all stakeholders and transparently communicated to the public. The 2020 County of Hawaii Multi -Hazard Mitigation Plan has identified several key issues pertaining to wildfire: • WUI Public Information — Effective public education and outreach in wildfire -prone areas must include information and support for mitigation activities like creating defensible space. Additionally, advance identification of evacuation routes and safe zones is essential. • Management of Development — Future expansion into Wildland-Urban Interface areas should continue to be guided by special development considerations to manage wildfire risks. • Vegetation Management Activities - These activities, including expanding target areas and allocating additional resources, are vital. Monitoring and controlled burns in sugarcane fields are crucial to mitigate potential major uncontrolled conflagrations. Currently, most established firebreaks are maintained by the State Department of Forestry & Wildlife (DOFAW) and community efforts on varying schedules. Unfortunately, there is no County -backed mandate or incentive for at -risk communities to actively participate in such initiatives. To address risk management and reduction, the HFD Prevention Branch has been actively collaborating with the Hawaii Wildfire Management Organization to enhance wildfire awareness in wildland-urban interface areas. Regular meetings are held to reinforce previous learnings and promote educational for homeowners. Wildland-Urban Interface areas are particularly vulnerable to property loss, threats to life, and ecological function disruptions caused by wildfires. A significant proportion of wildfires in Hawaii is attributed to human error or arson, often in proximity to developments, power line rights-of-way, and roadsides. Furthermore, many communities are surrounded by unmanaged, dry, nonnative grasslands that serve as highly flammable fuel sources. Ignited near residential areas, wildfires can rapidly encroach upon homes and lives. It is important to note that the HFD does not currently conduct controlled burns due to staffing limitations and a lack of certified personnel for fuel removal. Engaging property owners is critical for the effective implementation of this preventative strategy.