HomeMy WebLinkAbout12 FIRE CHIEF'S REPORT FY 23-24 JUNE
2024 | JUNE FISCAL YEAR 23-24
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FIRE CHIEF’S REPORT
Hawai’i Fire Department
25 Aupuni St., Suite 2501
Hilo, Hawai’i 96720
fire@hawaiicounty.gov
Fire Department Assessments: Selecting Future Leaders .................................................. 3
Admin Div: Fiscal Branch Report ................................................................................. 4
Program Budget Goals ....................................................................................... 4
Admin Div: HR Branch Report ..................................................................................... 5
Program Budget Goals ....................................................................................... 5
Internal Recruitment within Department ................................................................ 5
Open-Competitive Recruitment ........................................................................... 5
Operations ............................................................................................................ 5
Emergency Operations .......................................................................................... 6
Emergency Operations Highlights ............................................................................ 7
Battalion 1, East Hawaiʻi ..................................................................................... 7
Battalion 2, West Hawaiʻi ................................................................................... 7
Special Operations ............................................................................................... 7
Support Services ..................................................................................................... 9
Emergency Medical Services Branch ......................................................................... 9
Training Services Branch ....................................................................................... 9
Volunteer Training Section ..................................................................................... 11
Fire Prevention Branch ......................................................................................... 12
Logistics, Emergency Communications, and Vehicle Maintenance Section ....................... 13
Logistics ........................................................................................................ 13
Emergency Communications .............................................................................. 14
Information Technology Highlights ...................................................................... 14
Safety Specialist Report ........................................................................................... 14
Other Updates ....................................................................................................... 16
TABLE OF
CONTENTS:
2024 | JUNE PAGE 3
FIRE DEPARTMENT ASSESSMENTS:
SELECTING FUTURE LEADERS
The recent Captain's and Fire Equipment Operator's Assessments, held on June 17 and June
20-21, 2024, respectively, mark a significant milestone in the fire department's ongoing efforts
to identify and promote its most capable personnel. These assessments are crucial in ensuring
that the department is well-prepared to fill anticipated vacancies in the coming year with
individuals who are not only technically proficient but also possess strong leadership and
operational skills.
Captain's Assessment
The Captain's Assessment, conducted on June 17, saw six candidates vying for this pivotal role.
The role of a Captain in the fire department is critical, as they are responsible for leading a
team of firefighters, making quick and informed decisions during emergencies, and ensuring
the safety and efficiency of their crew. The assessment tested the candidates' leadership
abilities, decision-making skills, and knowledge of firefighting tactics and procedures. By
evaluating these key competencies, the department aims to select individuals who can inspire
confidence and maintain high standards of performance under pressure.
Fire Equipment Operator's Assessment
Held over two days from June 20 to 21, the Fire Equipment Operator's Assessment involved 16
candidates. Fire Equipment Operators play an essential role in the operation and maintenance
of firefighting equipment, ensuring that all tools and machinery are in optimal working
condition. The assessment for this role focused on the candidates' technical skills, their ability
to operate complex machinery, and their knowledge of equipment maintenance protocols.
Given the importance of reliable equipment in emergency situations, selecting the best
candidates for this role is vital for the department's overall effectiveness.
Importance of the Assessments
These assessments are not merely routine evaluations; they are integral to the strategic
planning and operational readiness of the fire department. With several anticipated vacancies
in the upcoming year, it is imperative to identify and promote individuals who are best suited
to take on these critical roles. The rigorous selection process ensures that only those who
demonstrate exceptional capability and commitment are chosen, thereby maintaining the
department's high standards and readiness to respond to emergencies.
2024 | JUNE PAGE 4
ADMIN DIV: FISCAL BRANCH REPORT**
Program Budget Goals June YTD GOAL
Invoice Settlement within 30 days 96% 95% 90%
Pay-out of CILV’s within 90 days 100% 86% 95%
Records Retention Schedule 0 0% Mid-Year
Transition to Electronic Records 100.0 100% 100% Qtr
Option Years for Contracts 100.0 100% 45-Days
Budget Category Adj
Appropriation
YTD
Expenditures % Used Goal
Fire S&W 37,358,536.00 35,827,227.92 95.9 100
6221-6225 OCE 6,006,864.83 5,876,668.86 97.83 100
Equipment 2,043,805.38 2,022,479.60 98.96 100
Grants & Misc S&W 1,408,679.03 928,655.96 65.92 100
6226 OCE 365,325.24 131,156.79 35.90 100
Equipment 766,035.63 753,158.53 98.32 100
EMS S&W 14,799,686.00 14,725,035.72 99.50 100
6227 OCE 2,869,926.77 2,680,618.70 93.40 100
Equipment 1,725,138.50 1,725,137.63 100 100
Ocean Safety S&W 4,873,052.07 3,955,212.43 81.16 100
6228 OCE 319,498.83 262,155.59 82.05 100
Equipment 395,443.16 339,832.28 85.94 100
Total Budget 72,931,991.44 69,227,340.01 94.92
Grant Update
2023 CDBG The bid was awarded to Orchid Isle Ford for three (3) Brush Trucks
$625,693. Delivery pending
CDBG- MIT Wildfire
Mitigation The Planning Department is tasked with acquiring this equipment.
FY 2021 AFG We are procuring items for the Fire Base Station Refresh Project. The
grant is 94% obligated as of 6/30/24 with 2 months remaining.
FY 22 USDA Volunteer
Fire Capacity Project
The bid for one brush truck for volunteer station 20A awarded,
pending delivery.
FY 23 USDA Volunteer
Fire Capacity Project
The bid was awarded to Orchid Isle Ford for two (2) Brush Trucks
$411,097. Delivery pending
Kohanaiki Lifeguard
Tower (Fair Share
funds)
Delivery expected at the end of the year.
Leleiwi Lifeguard
Tower (Fair Share
Funds)
Requisition with specs submitted to Purchasing.
Staffing for Adequate
Fire and Emergency
Response (SAFER)
This grant funds three Fire Captain and six Fire Fighter positions. As
of 6/30/2024, we have expended 98.5% of the grant funds with 7
months remaining. Funding expected to run out in August 2024.
**Data reflects preliminary reports for end of FY 2024
2024 | JUNE PAGE 5
ADMIN DIV: HR BRANCH REPORT
Program Budget Goals June YTD GOAL
Process actions within 15 working days 56 472 100%
Recruitment Actions < 30days 2 26 90%
Promotion Actions < 30days 4 36 90%
Personnel Actions within 30 days, <10% error 34 347 10%
Internal Recruitment within Department
Position Status Report
Fire Captain Interview/Assessment Center was held on June 17, 2024 for six
candidates.
Fire Equipment Operator Interview/Assessment Center was held on June 20-21, 2024 for 16
candidates.
Fire/Hazardous
Materials Specialist Pending interview/Assessment Center schedule.
Fire Training Specialist The only candidate voluntarily withdrew from the recruitment.
Water Safety Officer IV Submitted Request to Fill to DHR for recruitment.
Water Safety Officer V Recruitment cancelled.
Accountant I Submitted Request to Fill to DHR.
Open-Competitive Recruitment
OPERATIONS
Position Status Report
Fire Communications
Officer I Pending interview results.
Water Safety Officer I Pending interview results.
Fire Fighter Recruit
(Temp) Formal offers sent to 11 candidates.
Fire/EMS Recruit (Temp) Formal offer sent to one candidate.
Account Clerk (Temp) DHR referred five candidates. Pending interview schedule.
Clerk III DHR referred six candidates. Pending interview schedule.
2024 | JUNE PAGE 6
Emergency Operations
Total Calls for Calendar Year 2024 June % YTD %
Fire 69 3% 444 3%
Overpressure, Rupture, Explosion- no fire 1 0% 4 0%
Rescue and EMS 1,938 74% 11,532 74%
Hazardous Cond. (no fire) 14 1% 94 1%
Service Call 165 6% 969 6%
Good Intent calls 380 15% 2,243 14%
False Alarm / False calls 32 1% 219 1%
Severe Weather 0 0% 1 0%
Special Incident Type 2 0% 15 0%
Other (not completed yet) 6 0% 6 0%
Totals 2,607 100% 15,530 100%
Response Times CY 2024
Statistic June % that meet.… YTD % that meet...
Avg. Turn out time (Fire) 2:54 (80 sec.) 12.31% 2:50 (80 sec.) 13.13%
Avg. Turn out time (EMS) 2:13 (60 sec.) 16.33% 2:16 (60 sec.) 15.82%
Statistic June % that meet 6 min. YTD % that meet 6 min
Avg. Response Time (Fire) 2:54 13.04% 2:48 12.56%
Avg. Response Time (EMS) 2:12 17.04% 2:15 18.83%
Fire Impacts CY 2024
Call Type June YTD
Wildland calls (140, 141, 142, 143) 7 86
Acres burned 3 74
Structure Fires (110 & 111) 4 30
Property and Contents - Loss $139,416.00 $3,158,816.00
Property and Contents - Save $00.00 $2,377,600.00
Other fires (all other 100 series) 58 330
Property and Contents - Loss $82,000.00 $1,761,602.00
Property and Contents - Save $00.00 $36,100.00
Year 2019 2020 2021 2022 2023 2024 (est.)
Total Calls 26,869 25,015 27,398 29,594 30,738 31,060
2024 | JUNE PAGE 7
Emergency Operations Highlights
Battalion 1, East Hawaiʻi
6/6, Inc #13450; Structure
Fire: 56 Wiwoole
Street/District 2, structure fire
in an unoccupied commercial
building, known for homeless
activity. See Prevention
Report for investigation
details. No injuries or
fatalities.
6/9, Inc #13684, Search &
Rescue: Amaumau Road
Trail/District 19, uninjured lost
hiker and her dog, safely
extracted.
6/14, Inc #14173, Search &
Rescue: Nanue Bridge, Hwy
19, Papaaloa / District 1.
Injured Hiker airlifted from
river mouth.
6/17, Inc #14441, Fire: Rd
3/District 05, structure fire
with male party on scene with
burn injuries who refused
medical transport. No other
injuries or fatalities.
Battalion 2, West Hawaiʻi
6/4, Inc# 13276 Boat in Distress: Co7
w/ RB7 able to make contact and repair boat. Escorted in to harbor.
6/4, Inc# 13288 Fire: Metal scrap yard Co7 & 21 extinguished multiple burning vehicles
during a metal scrap yard fire.
6/18, Inc. 14512, HazMat: Co. 7 responded to private residence with Co. 21. Home
evacuated, propane leak detected, located, isolated and shut off. Home ventilated with
continuous air monitoring to ensure personnel and resident safety.
6/20, Inc. #14653 Multiple Vehicle Fire. Co. 20 and Co. 11 responded to mid-size
mobile home and full size truck fully involved.
Special Operations
Haz-Mat
Soliciting attendees for 2024 Hazmat Continuing Challenge in Sacramento
Hazmat Captain’s meeting scheduled for July 23 to discuss Hazmat equipment needs
for FY 25 and other program needs
Inc. #13684, rescue of lost hiker and dog
Photo credit: FRS Riley Young
2024 | JUNE PAGE 8
Ocean Safety
WSO V recruitment cancelled due to pending grievance with WSO III recruitment
process
WSO Transfers completed and scheduled for July 15, second transfer for Aug 16
scheduled.
WSO I hires pending reference checks.
Rescue
RB7 (Hoku) has been placed into service.
Preparations being made for Rescue Captain’s meeting to discuss Rescue equipment
replacement needs for FY 25 and other program concerns.
Incident heat map and YTD stats for June 2024
Link for Station Call Volume Breakdown
2024 | JUNE PAGE 9
SUPPORT SERVICES
Emergency Medical Services Branch
Paramedic Class Progress
The current paramedic class completed their fourth rotation and final testing requirements at
the end of June. These individuals are currently working on final state and national
requirements for licensure from the DCCA.
EMS Branch Meeting with AMR Management
The EMS Branch met with AMR management to discuss current operations here on Hawaiʻi
Island. Some of the topics discussed were patient transfers, AMR dispatch, our current transfer
protocol, and staffing challenges.
New Controlled Medication Software Program
EMS Branch personnel met with ESO Support to discuss our new controlled medication
software program that we hope to implement in the near future.
Prehospital Ventilator Evaluation
The prehospital ventilator evaluation process continues. We are currently trialing the Airon
ventilator that also has CPAP capability. So far, we have had positive feedback on this
ventilator. Our equipment committee hopes to make a decision within the next month.
Quarterly Base Station Meeting
On June 18th, we hosted our quarterly base station meeting at Kona Community Hospital. We
were honored to have Dr. Michael Brigoli from Stanford to present on palliative care in EMS.
Dr. Brigoli served 13 years with our department as an FMS II prior to pursuing his career as a
physician.
Replacement SUVs Awarded
Cutter Ford Aiea has been awarded the bid for the two replacement SUVs that are projected to
arrive in January 2025.
Honu Triathlon Assistance
EMS Branch personnel assisted with the Honu Triathlon held on June 1st at the Fairmont
Orchid.
Hawaiʻi Fentanyl Task Force Meeting
The Hawaii Fentanyl Task Force held a quarterly meeting on June 17th. Captain A. Mitchell did
an excellent presentation on current data and trends with overdoses on Hawaii Island.
Oxygen Delivery Delay
We have been experiencing a delay on delivery of oxygen from Airgas due to their inability to
fill medical grade oxygen here on Hawaii Island. Currently, all tanks are being shipped to
Honolulu to be filled. We are working with Airgas management to mitigate this situation. We
would like to thank everyone for their patience and understanding as we work through this
challenge.
Training Services Branch
Electrical Emergencies Training
Hawaiian Electric provided a one-day training for the 52nd Firefighter Recruits covering
electrical emergencies and electrical safety for first responders.
2024 | JUNE PAGE 10
High-Rise Operations Training
The 52nd Recruits attended High-Rise Operations training at Bayshore Towers and the Hilton
Waikoloa Ocean Tower. Operations companies including personnel from Central, Kaumana,
South Kohala, and Waikoloa attended as a familiarization. Operations personnel were
engaged with excellent questions as we continue to discuss, plan, and train for these high-risk,
low-frequency incidents. https://youtu.be/R2pmgalfhYM?si=p4IE8tI3JES8irh1
Joint Workouts with HFD and HPD Recruits
Mr. Tiger Hill of Respect the Corners Gym led two joint workouts with HFD and HPD recruits
and training staff. Tiger works with first responders around the state, including Special
Response Team law enforcement officers.
https://youtu.be/3FQz3wMhfhQ?si=Zjrm3R8ER9MSQZv5
Engine Company Operations Class
BC Patrick Springer and Captain Keone Roback attended “The Anatomy of a Push”
presentation by Jay Bonnifield, hosted by the 50th State F.O.O.L.S (Fraternal Order of
Leatherheads). The 8-hour class was centered in engine company operations, to include fire
dynamics, scene size up, interior fire attack/water application, and many other tactical
decision-making considerations.
Structural Firefighting Refresher Training
HFD Training Services Branch and Operations personnel assisted PTA Fire and Emergency
Services in delivering structural firefighting refresher training over three days at U.S. Army
Garrison Pohakuloa for 20 service members from the U.S. Marine Corps and Army Reserve
units. Topics of instruction included firefighter survival, rapid intervention, forcible entry,
ladders, fire attack, and a live fire behavior observation lab.
2024 | JUNE PAGE 11
53rd Firefighter Recruit Orientation
The 53rd Firefighter Recruit Candidates had an orientation with Fire HR. There are fifteen (15)
candidates currently completing medical clearances. The class has a projected start date of
August 1, 2024.
Volunteer Training Section
5-D (Fern Acres)
Company 5D-Fern Acres responded to a car fire and a trash fire, recently added two
volunteers and recruited two more. They are actively working on ways to improve participation
and attendance with training and callouts.
7-B (Kalaoa)
Volunteer Company 7B had two callouts during the month of June, one brush fire and one
smoke sighted. Their training for the month of June consisted of Firefighter safety and PPE,
pump operations, and “Stop the Bleed” certification.
8-A (Pa’auilo)
Volunteer Company 8A performed driver training and completed some much-needed repairs
on Engine 8A.
9-B (Kanehoa)
Volunteer Company 9B brushed up on high performance CPR with feedback mannequins under
the direction of CPR instructor/Volunteer FEO Chris Stelfox. Company 9B also participated in
“Stop the Bleed” training and certification led by the Trauma Program Coordinator, Michelle
Morua from Queen’s North Hawaii Community Hospital.
2024 | JUNE PAGE 12
10-D (Ainaloa)
Volunteers, responded to a 30x30 structure fire in Pahoa’s Nanawale Estates and assisted by
providing water shuttle operations moving approximately 3000 gallons of water to the fire-
ground. 10-Delta also partnered with the Ainaloa Community Associations Neighborhood
watch to increase community awareness & engagement about Volunteer Fire. 10-Delta also
concentrated on wildland fire training & maintenance on Engine 10-Delta.
14-A (Kohala)
Company 14A participated in “Stop the Bleed” training and certification led by the Trauma
Program Coordinator, Michelle Morua from Queen’s North Hawaii Community Hospital.
19-A (Volcano)
Volunteers at station 19A in Volcano along with personnel from station 5C from Fern Forest
trained in the use of the PRO-pak. In addition, classroom instruction in the use of fire shelters
followed by practical field exercise. Station’s Engine was brought back online by repairs at the
mechanic shop in Hilo. A total of 80 hrs was contributed to the mission of Hawaii Fire Dept.
Fire Prevention Branch
Fire Investigations
The Fire Prevention Branch investigated One
structure fire during the Month of June. The
fire was in a commercial occupancy, in District
2. The fire damaged portions of the ceiling
and structure of an area under a mezzanine. It
is suspected that the fire originated from
homeless trespassers who were illegally
entering the building. No injuries or fatalities
were reported at the incident.
Public Education
The Fire Prevention Branch was grateful to have the
opportunity to participate in the Hawaii County’s Civil
Defense Preparedness fair on June 1, 2024.
2024 | JUNE PAGE 13
Our Social Media efforts continue to highlight the department. This month we were led by Lt.
Goo, who had the privilege of working with Company 14 and the Training Branch on a High-
Rise Training at the Hilton!
Project Updates
Our Inspectors were able to test the Fire
Suppression and Fire Alarm systems in
the new joint Dispatch Center on Mohouli
st. The building is protected by multiple
Fire Suppression systems intended to
Keep our Dispatchers safe.
The buildout of the EPR Property list is ongoing. We expect to begin assisting the Company
level officers with their Preplans by the end of the year.
Chief Kurashige and Fireworks Auditor Moraes conducted numerous Fireworks inspections and
setups for the 4th of July shows.
Logistics, Emergency Communications, and Vehicle
Maintenance Section
Logistics
Annual inventory is nearing completion, thank you to all stations for submittals.
Fire ordering site:
o 319 customers
o 74 orders for the month of June
o Approximate gross order sales, 19k of products
Radio installs has been completed for Brush truck 15 and 9.
Additional ice machines have been ordered and will be installed at Stations 6,8,9
Apparatus and Equipment Repair
One hundred and fifty-four (154) total repairs/service.
2024 | JUNE PAGE 14
Eighteen (18) service calls or trouble calls.
Twelve (12) contracted out and tows
Emergency Communications
Two FCO II had the opportunity to attend the NENA conference in Orlando, FL.
FCO II Tatianna Rodrigues had her pinning ceremony with her family and supervisors.
We had 8 candidates interview for the FCO I position, however none were selected due
to not meeting the minimum qualifications.
All four of our FCO I attended Mental Health First Aid training, sponsored by UH Hilo
We continue to see progress in the new Joint Communication Center. Once the building
is turned over to the County, vendors will begin installation of their equipment.
Information Technology Highlights
Fiber Optic internet installation and county network setup for Ocean Safety West –
Kailua pier location.
Work with Information Technology department on relocation of network folders from
server coh01 to server “hawaiicounty.gov”.
Assist FireWorks committee with vehicle maintenance checks rollout.
FireWorks new design released for all HFD personnel.
Inventory for admin office
Network scanning of all HFD locations for inventory items.
Joint Communication Center (JCC) meetings. Tentative building completion date TBD.
Occupation date TBD.
SAFETY SPECIALIST REPORT
Efforts are ongoing to finalize a Mold Awareness & Abatement Training/Procedure. The Safety
Culture Survey results were published. An in-station uniform and gear decontamination
procedure is being created in response to the status of capabilities with available
washers/dryers/extractors at various stations.
2024 | JUNE PAGE 15
Safety or Health notices highlighted multiple hazards, such as hurricane preparedness,
pertussis outbreaks, terrorism, and potential metal buildup in SCBA regulators. The
department actively participated in National Firefighter Safety Stand Down Week, notably
supported by Chief Springer's Training Branch.
A GAP Analysis of water rescue was conducted with internal-stakeholders and a draft report is
being circulated for review. Engagement with vendors to demo or evaluate an EMILY Rescue
Robot includes federal lifeguards on another island using the technology. The PEER Support
team is demoing the Cordico Wellness App for first responders. Seven incidents resulted in
either an incident/Accident or Vehicle/Equipment/Property Damage.
At the mid-point of 2024 here are some stats/tends:
2024 | JUNE PAGE 16
OTHER UPDATES
Hawaii Energy Conference 2024 –
Reimagining Resilience
Chief Todd participated as a speaker at
the 11th Hawai’i Energy Conference on
May 22-23, 2024, at the Maui Arts and
Cultural Center. The purpose of the
conference was to discuss the importance
of energy resilience amid increasing
extreme weather events. Attendees
explored solutions for improving
resilience, including biofuels, resilience
planning for marginalized communities,
and DER applications post-August 2023
Maui fires. Advancements in risk
management, grid stability, and adaptive
solutions were highlighted.
END REPORT