2024-08-22 Fire Commission Minutes

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Hawaii Fire Commission Regular Session Minutes August 22, 2024 Page 5 o Information Technology: They can now order their bunker gear through the new Shopify website, which offers all bunker gear options directly online. CradlePoint changed out on E03 due to MDT VPN. Long-term plans include continued discussions with Opticom, a traffic control system that helps emergency vehicles manage traffic lights at intersections. Currently, Opticom operates using infrared light, the latest version will use GPS technology. This upgraded system will enable traffic signals to detect approaching emergency vehicles in advance and change the lights before they arrive, clearing the way for smoother passage. This system will require GPS data from responding units to function effectively. Additionally, new iPads have been received for the Ocean Safety Section, and ProQA has been updated. • Safety Specialist Report: In July, they focused on a mold awareness campaign and conducted a Water Rescue GAP analysis. They also advanced their respiratory protection program, achieving 95% compliance with fit testing in West Hawaii, while continuing to train additional personnel in East Hawai'i. Planning is underway for the Continuity of Operations (COOP) exercise scheduled for October 17t" Chief Todd added that since January 2023, he's been working to have cameras installed on the island. They encountered funding challenges and faced obstacles but have been collaborating with private entities, including hotels and donors, to advance the project. After the August 81" fires, he approached HELCO and other stakeholders with the proposal. HECO is now fully supportive. Chief Todd shared that the live feeds from these cameras provide real-time updates. The system uses artificial intelligence to detect smoke in the images and alerts human operators on the mainland if smoke is detected. These operators then verify the presence of smoke and, if confirmed, contact 911. The system has already successfully identified brush fires in Honolulu ahead of time. Vice Chair Wolf had follow-up questions regarding the helicopter status and the hydrants. She asked whether the helicopter would be used for inter-island transfers, how the funding was sourced, and whether the hydrants are managed by the Fire Department or the Department of Water Supply. Chief Todd explained that Helicopter 3 was donated by an individual to facilitate inter-island transfers. The department's current focus is to support this process rather than to enter the inter- facility transport business. As a 911 response organization, its primary goal is to address emergencies. They are working to help the Sayres either establish a company or secure a contract for these transfers. HFD does not intend to manage inter-island facility transports themselves but supports the initiative as it benefits the state and the island. In response to Vice Chair Wolf's question about the hydrants, Chief Todd clarified that the Department of Water Supply is the sole provider for all hydrants on the island. They are responsible for the maintenance, repairs, and replacements of hydrants. This responsibility does not fall under HFD, as defined by state law.