2026-02-26 Fire Commission Regular Minutes

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Hawaii Fire Commission Regular Session Minutes February 26, 2026 Page 4 operations and improved 911 response capability. He clarified that the department is responsible for 911 emergency air response, while interfacility transports are primarily handled by private providers, with the department assisting only if needed. He also confirmed that department helicopters do not fly between islands. Chief Volpe highlighted several recent rescue incidents, including cliff rescues, a missing diver recovery, ocean rescues, and multiple water-related assists. He noted that Kahalu`u Beach Park is currently the busiest beach on the island based on new ocean safety data Ocean Safety: Chief Volpe reported that Ocean Safety, which manages 16 beaches, has recently been established as its own section under an Ocean Safety Chief. The section has about 70 personnel. For January, there were approximately 443,000 beach visitors, 61 rescues, numerous preventative actions, and medical aids. He provided budget updates and noted that rescue watercraft operator staffing is below target, with only three certified operators. Recruitment and training efforts are ongoing, though initial testing has had low pass rates. Chair Kosaki also provided background on the program, noting it began in 2015 and that the number of qualified operators has since declined. EMS Branch: Chief Volpe reported that S&W is at 68%, OCE is underspent, and equipment is at 55%. For January, the department's ROSC rate was about 6.2%, with 1,123 AILS and 658 BLS responses. He provided an update on the new Makalei ambulance, with a soft launch planned for March and full staffing by July—August. This will temporarily increase paramedic vacancies, which are expected to decrease once current trainees complete the program later this year. The Chief also highlighted ongoing training efforts, recent EMS support activities, and an update on the Medical Director position, noting that an interim director has been appointed while recruitment for a permanent replacement continues. Training Services Branch: Budget is on track, with OCE underspent and equipment slightly over but within range. Chief Volpe reported that training efforts are focused on ensuring recruits graduate with required certifications and aligning programs with job performance expectations. The 54t" Recruit Class has begun EMT training and is meeting academic standards. Additional training initiatives included wildland command workshops, AFG Calm the Chaos training, and planning for upcoming structural and specialized training programs.