2024-09-26 Fire Commission Minutes

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Hawaii Fire Commission Regular Session Minutes September 26, 2024 Page 3 prepared, with volunteers alerted to be ready if needed. However, the storm did not pose significant issues. Despite heavy rainfall up to 20 inches in some areas over 24 hours, there was no major damage, and the steady rain allowed water to drain properly. Commissioner Cushnie asked about upstaffing during red flag events or hurricanes and how this process is directed to captains and battalion chiefs. Chief Todd explained that upstaffing decisions are left to the discretion of the battalion chiefs, as there is no formal directive or policy in place. The department is currently developing a red flag policy, with the goal of having at least one firefighter per brush truck, and if they can get a second person they would approve it. Further discussion covered mandatory recall procedures. Deputy Chief Volpe noted that mandatory recalls are rare but available as a tool when needed. He gave the example of August 8, 2023, when fires required additional manpower. The department identified the need early, holding personnel over before the usual shift change at 8:00 a.m. This needs-based recall allowed them to deploy sufficient firefighters, contributing to the successful management of multiple simultaneous fires. • Emergency Operations: o Battalion 1 (East Hawai`i): A vehicle went over the Wainaku Bridge, damaging the railing. Additionally, there was a brush fire on South Point Road. o Battalion 2 (West Hawai`i): A 40-acre brush fire occurred in Waikoloa. There was also an aircraft emergency, where the plane made a safe landing in a field. • Special Events: The Joy Mills Special Needs Day took place on August 24th, followed by Hurricane Hone, which occurred from August 24th to 25th. • Special Operations: o Ocean Safety: The Junior Lifeguard State Championships were held on August 10th at Hapuna Beach Park, where the Hawaii Island Junior Lifeguards won the State Championships. o Rescue: The US Coast Guard SAREX took place on September 10th and 12th. Ongoing discussions are focused on replacing Light Rescue vehicles and developing their specifications. Additionally, the fuel tank for the Rescue 7 boat (Radon) has been replaced, and it is expected to be fully operational. Recess was called at 10:02 a.m., the meeting reconvened at 10:15 a.m.