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Battalion Chief and Assistant Chief positions. Working on opening <br />recruitment for two Dispatchers, a Mechanic, and an Account Clerk. <br />Operations Division <br /> Naptha (Barge) Fire: <br />· <br />Chief Oliveira explained that four of the Hilo Fire Departments responded <br />to the pier, due to a flange fire on the morning of July 3, 2004. It was <br />determined that the fire initiated from a pump leak that ignited and melted <br />the gasket on the flange. A pressurized leak at the joint of the piping <br />caused a 20-30 feet jet-fire projecting off the barge. Their primary concern <br />was to shut off the fuel, but the emergency shutoff switch malfunctioned. <br />As this occurred, a foreign Barge Operator panicked and reverted back to <br />his native language, which resulted in a communication barrier between <br />the responders and himself. There was consideration of an evacuation <br />because of the size of the area, which included the hotels, parts of <br />Keaukaha,andthebackoftheairport.Fortunately,theincidentdidnot <br />escalate and there was no need to evacuate. The HCFD was pleased <br />with the performance and conduct of their personnel. Their tactics were <br />applied adequately and appropriately. This situation has raised an <br />awareness to be better prepared for malfunctions and to preplan for them <br />and also, to learn more about these vessels and their equipment. There is <br />a need to work with the industries to identify potential problems. <br />Captain Arbles stated that the operator did initially try to hit the shutoff <br />valve to stop the flow of fuel to the engine but was overwhelmed by the <br />smoke and heat. The intensity of the flames caused the wires to burn, <br />which resulted in a disconnection every time the switch was used. <br />Commissioner Browne inquired on the duration of a port closure if an <br />explosion occurred. <br />Chief Oliveira stated that fuel barges arrive on a weekly basis. The public <br />would be surprised to know what kind of products are stored. The <br />Industry is responsible with the compliance of all rules and regulations <br />regarding storage and operations. <br />Commissioner Browne complimented the HCFD for an outstanding job. <br />Chief Oliveira praised the Industries personnel who assisted. This <br />incident has encouraged a training awareness for the HCFD, the Industry, <br />and the Coast Guard. <br />Commissioner Okabe asked if the Coast Guard performs any type of fire <br />rescue. <br />6 <br /> <br />