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Home My WebLink AboutFIRE CHIEF'S REPORT FY 25-26 MARCH 2026 | MARCH FISCAL YEAR 25-26 FIRE CHIEF’S REPORT HAWAI’I FIRE DEPARTMENT 25 AUPUNI ST., SUITE 2501 HILO, HAWAI’I 96720 FIRE@HAWAIICOUNTY.GOV Chief’s Office Report ................................................................................................................................. 3 Fiscal Branch Report ................................................................................................................................. 3 Grants Report ............................................................................................................................................. 3 Human Resources Branch Report ........................................................................................................ 5 Emergency Operations Division ........................................................................................................... 7 Special Operations Branch ..................................................................................................................... 8 Program Highlights: Special Operations Branch ........................................................................... 8 Ocean Safety Operations Branch ......................................................................................................... 9 Program Highlights: Ocean Safety ..................................................................................................... 9 Emergency Medical Services Branch ................................................................................................ 10 Program Highlights: EMS Branch ...................................................................................................... 10 Training Services Branch ....................................................................................................................... 11 Program Highlights: Training Services Branch ............................................................................. 11 Volunteer Services Section ................................................................................................................... 12 Fire Prevention Branch ........................................................................................................................... 12 Auxiliary Services Branch ....................................................................................................................... 13 Program Highlights: Auxiliary Services Branch ............................................................................ 13 Vehicle Maintenance Section .............................................................................................................. 14 Emergency Communications Branch ................................................................................................ 14 Snapshots and Stories ............................................................................................................................ 15 Operations Highlights ........................................................................................................................... 15 Fire Prevention Highlights ................................................................................................................... 16 Ocean Safety Highlights ....................................................................................................................... 17 Volunteer Training ................................................................................................................................. 18 Technical Services Highlights ............................................................................................................. 19 Safety Program ........................................................................................................................................ 20 Aloha Exchange Firefighter of the Year .......................................................................................... 22 Through The Years ................................................................................................................................. 23 Stay Connected! ...................................................................................................................................... 24 TABLE OF CONTENTS 2026 | MARCH PAGE 3 CHIEF’S OFFICE REPORT Section Report by Chief’s Office Program Budget Objectives February YTD Goal Maintain >95% current policies, procedures, and MOU, MOA, MAA. 59% 59% >95% FISCAL BRANCH REPORT Section Report by: Fire Accountant IV Program Budget Objectives QTR YTD Goal Maintain budget variance within ±10% of projections for each major cost center per QTR. - - ±10% Lead monthly budget meetings 1 1 12 Budget Adj Appr YTD Exp % Used Goal Total Budget $95,161,448* $68,779,970* 72% *Budget numbers have not been verified. GRANTS REPORT Section Report by: Fiscal Division Program Measures March YTD Goal Dollar value of grants applied for $0.00 $7,720,254 $5,000,000 Dollar value of grants received $0.00 $2,678,275 $1,000,000 Grants Purpose Award Amt Spent YTD Update CDBG-MIT (3) Brush Trucks IFB 4700 (Delivered); Mobile Service Trailer IFB 4701 (Delivered 9/15/25); Mobile Command Vehicle (bids received) $891,420 $50,576 $1,121,897 $891,420 $50,576 $0 Rebel Strike LLC Hawaii Specialty Vehicles Pierce Manufacturing FY23 AFG (08/2024-08/2026) Hazard Zone (IDLH) Incident. Command and a Control Training Program $488,722 $145,241 27.02% spent as of 3/31/2026 FY 25 USDA Vol. Fire Cap. Project Brush Truck 16B Puʻuanahulu Volunteer Fire Station $90,000 $0 Rebid March 2026. Request to extend grant period. Leleiwi Lifeguard Tower (Fair Share Funds) Surveyor Jr. lifeguard tower furnished by Newport Laminates $54,785 $0 Delivery expected in June 2026. 2026 | MARCH PAGE 4 Grant Name Submission Deadline Purpose Est. Request FY25 SAFER Submitted to FEMA 7/1/25 Labor Cost $4,343,148 FY25 FP&S Submitted to FEMA 7/2/25 Investigation Eqp $53,600 Rural Health Transformation Program 9/23/25 Community Paramedicine $2,663,506 SAFER 12 temp. firefighter positions $2,678,274 $0 Grant accepted Fair Share Fund HFD Maintenance Shop Design $684,000 $0 Allotment approved 2026 | MARCH PAGE 5 HUMAN RESOURCES BRANCH REPORT Section Report by: Fire Human Resources Program Specialist FY 2025/26 Calendar Rank Recruitment Exam/PAE Assessment Notes Assistant Chief N/A N/A N/A Position filled 12/01/2025 Battalion Chief Operations TBD TBD TBD Battalion Chief Prevention N/A N/A N/A No anticipated vacancies in FY 26-27 Battalion Chief Auxiliary Services 03/8/2026 N/A TBD Battalion Chief Communications N/A N/A N/A No anticipated vacancies in FY 26-27 Battalion Chief EMS N/A N/A N/A No anticipated vacancies in FY 26-27 WSO V N/A N/A N/A No anticipated vacancies in FY 26-27 Captain Operations 12/7/2025 02/10/2025 3/9-11/2026 Captain Training N/A N/A N/A No anticipated vacancies in FY 26-27 Captain Volunteer Services TBD N/A TBD Captain Prevention N/A N/A N/A No anticipated vacancies in FY 26-27 Captain Communications 01/31/2026 N/A 03/06/2026 FMS III N/A N/A N/A No anticipated vacancies in FY 26-27 WSO IV N/A N/A N/A No anticipated vacancies in FY 26-27 Fire Prevention Inspector II N/A N/A N/A No anticipated vacancies in FY 26-27 WSO III 02/22/2026 TBD TBD 1 position vacant as of 1/1/2026. MQs and E&E underway WSO I 01/25/2026 03/04/2026 03/24/2026 DHR to share qualified candidates Fire Equipment Operator 10/12/2025 1/6/2026 2/24/2026 Score notification letters sent to candidates Fire Apparatus Trainer TBD TBD TBD Fire Prevention Inspector I N/A N/A N/A No anticipated vacancies in FY 26-27 Fire Training Specialist TBD N/A TBD FMS II 04/2026 TBD TBD Memo requested new recruitment 02/20/26. Fire Rescue Specialist TBD TBD TBD 2026 | MARCH PAGE 6 Hazardous Materials Tech 10/19/2025 1/13/2026 3/3/2026 Score notification letters sent to candidates  *Version one of an annual recruitment calendar Program Measure March YTD Vacancy Rate Total 10% 10% Vacancy Rate Admin & Support 9 9 Vacancy Rate Fire 15 15 Vacancy Rate EMS 7 10 Vacancy Rate Communications 14 16 Vacancy Rate Ocean Safety 7 14 Program Budget Objectives March YTD Goal Efficient response to human resource queries 100% of 52 100% (357) <2 Days Active Avg Goal Average internal investigations completion in days 7 120+* <60 days Rate Avg Goal Maintain a vacancy rate below 7% 10% 10% <36 PV Active Recruitments by HFD Position Status Report Battalion Chief, Auxiliary Services Assessment Notice sent March 30, 2026. Fire Captain Assessment Notice sent February 27, 2026. Fire Captain – Emergency Communications Score notification letters sent March 27, 2026.  Fire Equipment Operator Score notification letters sent March 20, 2026. Fire / Hazardous Materials Specialist Score Notification letters sent March 25, 2026. Fire Fighter Recruit PAE scheduled for April 12, 2026. Fire Fighter Recruit (SAFER grant) Exam conducted March 23, 2026. Fire / EMS Recruit PAE/Exam March 23, 2026.  Water Safety Officer Is Interviews complete March 24, 2026. Water Safety Officer III Application (HR/Civil Service) March 6, 2026. Account Clerks Interviews scheduled March 27, 2026.  Clerk IIIs Application (HR/Civil Service) March 27, 2026. Fire Equipment Mechanic Candidate began March 16, 2026. Professional Trainee – Grants Assessment Notice sent March 20, 2026. Human Resources Technician I Application (HR/Civil Service) draft March 19, 2026. *Several investigations are being carried out outside of the HR Branch, which is why exact data is not available. 2026 | MARCH PAGE 7 EMERGENCY OPERATIONS DIVISION Section Report by: Assistant Chief of Operations Budget Category Adj Appropriation YTD Expenditures % Used Goal Fire S&W $43,575,837 $30,706,336* 71% 63%* 62102 OCE $2,652,901 $2,466,525 93% 75% 62106 Equipment $2,633,076 $2,619,779 99% 75% Fire - Heli S&W $329,364 $159,645* 48% 63%* 62112+62742 OCE $707,392 $501.017 71% 75% 62116+62746 Equipment $10,000 $0 0% 75% *S&W reporting through 1/31 only; January goal is 63% Program Budget Objectives March YTD Goal 95% of all assigned training completed 41% 57% >95% Daily Vehicle Checks 90% (OPS) 53% 56% >90% Average turn out time (total) 02:17 02:13 <01:20 99% Report completion within 10 days 99% 99% 99% Total Calls for Calendar Year 2026 March YTD % Fire 63 144 3% EMS 1,754 3,732 72% Other 612 1,279 25% Totals 2,429 7,883 100% Year 2021 2022 2023 2024 2025 2026 (est.) Total Calls 27,398 29,594 30,738 31,143 31,162 31,200 Program Measures March % < 80 secs YTD % < 80 secs Avg. Turn out time (Fire) 02:27 18% 02:21 17% Avg. Turn out time (EMS) 02:07 19% 02:05 20% Program Measures March % < 9 mins YTD % < 9 mins Avg. Response Time (Fire) 10:59 39% 10:48 47% Avg. Response Time (EMS) 09:14 58% 9:03 60% Call Type March YTD Wildland calls (140, 141, 142, 143) 7 29 Acres burned 0 7.45 Structure Fires (110 & 111) 4 22 Property and Contents - Loss $453,800 $1,591,700 Property and Contents - Save $32,500 $512,500 Other fires (all other 100 series) 35 141 Property and Contents - Loss $ 0 $ 0 Property and Contents - Save $ 0 $ 0 2026 | MARCH PAGE 8 SPECIAL OPERATIONS BRANCH Section Report by: Battalion Chief of Special Operations Budget Category Adj Appropriation YTD Expenditures % Used Goal 62302* OCE $161,625 $89,975 56% 75% 62306* Equipment $192,920 $22,688 12% 75% *sub-budget within auxiliary service budget Program Budget Objectives March YTD Goal Aircraft Operational Uptime >90% 92% 96% > 90% Review & update SOP/SOG within cycle 0 0 >100% Arrange annual HazTech Course 1 1 per Y Maintain minimum proficiency training hours Rescue 196 2,268 3,000 Maintain minimum proficiency training hours Hazmat 0 696 600 Maintain minimum proficiency training hours Air Ops 2.7 37.7 30 PROGRAM HIGHLIGHTS: SPECIAL OPERATIONS BRANCH Aviation • 3/24 – Chopper-2 responded to Manuka State Park for patient involved in MVA. Patient transported to Kona Community Hospital via Chopper-2. Rescue • 3/15 – Company 7 and Company 12 responded for report of swimmers in distress. Two parties extricated from water via Rescue Boat 7. • 3/20 – Company 2, Company 8, and Chopper-1 responded to Hamakua coast for potential missing party. Multi-day search executed to include shoreline search and SCUBA operations. Missing party is still unaccounted for. • 3/21 – Company 2 and Chopper-1 responded to Hakalau per report of swimmers in distress. Three parties extricated to shoreline via Chopper-1. • 3/24 – Company 1 and Rescue Boat 2 responded to Hilo Bay for sailboat that had turned over. Company 2 assisted boat to shore along with civilian boats on scene, no injuries reported. Hazardous Materials (HAZMAT) • 3/6 – Company 4, Medic 3 responded to a report of chemical smell. Perimeter established by Company 4, Contractor removed product causing noxious smell.  • HAZTECH Course for 20 personnel scheduled for 4/13-24. This will augment our current pool of personnel trained to the Hazardous Materials Technician level. 2026 | MARCH PAGE 9 OCEAN SAFETY OPERATIONS BRANCH Section Report by: Water Safety Officer V Budget Category Adj Appropriation YTD Expenditures % Used Goal Ocean Safety S&W $4,532,561 $2,937,242* 64% 63%* 62802 OCE $515,054 $458,951 89% 75% 62806 Equipment $294,335 $290,745 99% 75% *S&W reporting through 1/31 only; January goal is 63% Program Measures (Metrics) March YTD # of people Number of Beach Visitors 323,657 1,182,148 Number of Preventative Actions 293 970 Number of Minor Medical Aids 176 615 Number of Major Medical Aids (Transports) 5 5 Number of Rescues 68 183 Program Budget Objectives Current Goal Certified Rescue Watercraft Operators >9 3 9 Provide 80% staffed tower hours to daylight 80% 85% Maintain Updated Policies and Procedures (10) No Data 100% PROGRAM HIGHLIGHTS: OCEAN SAFETY Rescue Watercraft Operator Program Update: The HFD’s Rescue Watercraft Operator (RWCO) Training Program’s 3rd round of solicitation and written exam and physical assessment exam is complete. 8 candidates will be participating in the RWCO training on May 11th. 2026 | MARCH PAGE 10 EMERGENCY MEDICAL SERVICES BRANCH Section Report by: Battalion Chief of EMS Budget Category Adj Appropriation YTD Expenditures % Used Goal EMS S&W $16,077,526 $10,937,821* 68% 63%* 62702 OCE $2,431,503 $1,583,037 65% 75% 62706 Equipment $6,095,520 $5,722,729 94% 75% *S&W reporting through 1/31 only; January goal is 63% Program Measures March YTD ROSC Rate N/A N/A Call Volume ALS Transport 1,001 3,110 Call Volume BLS Transport 606 1,866 Program Budget Objectives March YTD Goal Less than 10% paramedic Vacancy rate 14% (7) 14% (7) < 6 vac Quality review of 95% of Critical Calls 10% 3% 100% Maintain a fleet of >8 Spare medics 9 9 >8 Spare PROGRAM HIGHLIGHTS: EMS BRANCH • On March 1, 2026, Medic 21 was placed into service and ambulance operations out of Makalei Fire Station officially began. Mahalo again to everyone who helped make this possible! • EMS Branch personnel met with Kau Hospital staff to discuss recent challenges with patient transfers and transports from the hospital and explore ways to improve patient care. • The EMS Branch hosted a meet-and-greet with the new Hawaiʻi Regional Director from Life Flight Network to strengthen working relationships and coordination with our air medical partners. • The 54th Firefighter Recruit Class received an introduction to ESO and the expectations at fire stations and hospitals as they began their EMT clinical rotations. • The Fall 2025 Paramedic students completed their first internship rotation, with second rotation beginning in late March. • The EMS Branch assisted the Training Branch and HPD with another successful 3-day ALERRT AAIR Active Shooter Training. • EMS Branch Public Events: o 3/11: Waiakea Elementary School Career Day o 3/16: Community Paramedicine presentation to members of the Foster Grandparent Program o 3/24: Waiakeawaena Elementary School Career Week • EMS Shopify Store – Supply Orders Data for the Month of March: o 73 orders, approximately $50K in gross order sales 2026 | MARCH PAGE 11 TRAINING SERVICES BRANC H Section Report by: Battalion Chief of Training Budget Category Adj Appropriation YTD Expenditures % Used Goal Fire Training S&W $1,044,720 $609,135* 58% 63%* 62402 OCE $252,073 $158,970 63% 75% 62406 Equipment $84,893 $82,393 97% 75% *S&W reporting through 1/31 only; January goal is 63% Program Budget Objectives FF 1 & 2 Wildland Driver Training Ensure all recruits graduate with minimum certifications In progress Spring 2026 Spring 2026 Program Budget Objectives March YTD Goal Professional Development 53 personnel 186 personnel 50 personnel Incident Command Training 54 personnel 101 personnel 100% compliance Structural Firefighting Training 30 personnel 45 personnel 75 personnel Wildland Firefighting Training 2 personnel 6 personnel pending funding PROGRAM HIGHLIGHTS: TRAINING SERVICES BRANCH • Our Calm the Chaos Instructor Cadre met from March 2-4, and 24-25 preparing delivery of incident command curriculum, funded by the Assistance to Firefighter’s Grant (AFG). 101 ranked personnel have completed the Wildland Module and will complete their Structural Firefighting Command workshops in April and May. Approximately 50 personnel required have not attended any workshops and will be scheduled soon. • 28 sworn and civilian personnel attended Taking Care of Our Own training presented by the National Fallen Firefighters Foundation pertaining to Line of Duty Deaths (LODD). FSS Chris Sloman secured this valuable training opportunity which enables our personnel to better support the needs of the Department, community, and families. • Collaborated with HPD for ALERRT Active Shooter response training held at Keaau High School on March 18-20. The course covers strategies, tactics, and skills directly applicable to victim survivability and improved outcomes. • Conducted ongoing meetings with Fire Engineering Training for research and analysis to determine potential replacement of the Vector Solutions Learning Management/Training Records management system. 2026 | MARCH PAGE 12 VOLUNTEER SERVICES SECTION Section Report by: Senior Volunteer Training Captain Budget Category Adj Appropriation YTD Expenditures % Used Goal Fire Volunteer S&W $ 318,751 $231,296* 73% 63%* 62502 OCE $ 218,541 $188,029 86% 75% 62506 Equipment $ 377,934 $377,934 100% 75% *S&W reporting through 1/31 only; January goal is 63% Program Measures March Total Total Volunteers 1 118 Program Budget Objectives March YTD Goal Apply to two or more grants per year 0 1 >2 Manage, and Expend Grants Completely 0% 90% 100% Compliance of Online Training of Volunteers 0% 46% 75% Maintain 1 spare qualified driver per volunteer station 1 33 51 FIRE PREVENTION BRANCH Section Report by: Battalion Chief of Fire Prevention Budget Category Adj Appropriation YTD Expenditures % Used Goal Fire Prevention S&W $ 1,333,597 $ 960,627* 72% 63%* 62202 OCE $ 49,875 $ 41,922 84% 75% 62206 Equipment $ 40,000 $ 39,378 98% 75% *S&W reporting through 1/31 only; January goal is 63% Program Measures March YTD Last Year Comp Inspections - Occupancy 109 412 N/A* Public Education Events 10 64 N/A* Plans Reviewed 53 537 N/A* Fire Investigations 1 12 N/A* Complaints Investigated 1 28 N/A* Average Plan Review Time in Days 9.9 10.5 N/A* Program Budget Objectives March YTD Goal Average plans reviewed < 14 days 9.9 days 10.5 days <14 Days Public Education min 2 a month 10 64 24 Maintain CFIT Designation for 2 personnel min 1 1 2 Fire Inspection of High Hazard >6 per month 5 44 72 / year EPR property list input @ 60 updates a month 32 334 720 / year * YTD totals were not available as a new EPR system changeover occurred 2026 | MARCH PAGE 13 AUXILIARY SERVICES BRANCH Section Report by: Battalion Chief of Auxiliary Services Budget Category Adj Appropriation YTD Expenditures % Used Goal Auxiliary S&W $573,412 $322,717* 56% 63%* 62302 OCE $1,883,077 $1,818,472 96% 75% 62306 Equipment $953,005 $931,302 98% 75% *S&W reporting through 1/31 only; January goal is 63% Program Measures March YTD Monthly Total Order (59-PPE $18,337.29, 32- supplies $12,468.59) 66 868 Gross Product Sent to Dept $20,425 $418,773 Number of variants available in warehouse 458 N/A Variants Items in stock 416 N/A Program Budget Objectives March YTD Goal Expenditure of OCE budget to 99% by end of fiscal No data No data No data Encumbrance of Equip budget to 90% by end of second quarter No data No data No data In stock percent > 90% for all warehouse variants 91% No data >90% Average fulfillment within 10 working days or less 5.92 days No data <10 days PROGRAM HIGHLIGHTS: AUXILIARY SERVICES BRANCH • The HFD warehouse continued to support operations with the installation of extractors and dryers at multiple stations. Routine and emergency orders continue to be filled within established timelines and ensure that frontline personnel receive the equipment and supplies needed to maintain readiness and continuity of service. 2026 | MARCH PAGE 14 VEHICLE MAINTENANCE SECTION Section Report by: Chief Mechanic Budget Category Adj Appropriation YTD Expenditures % Used Goal Auxiliary S&W $501,253 $ 358,346* 71% 63%* 62322 OCE $ 645,857 $ 639,655 99% 75% 62326 Equipment $25,000 $ 1,828 7% 75% *S&W reporting through 1/31 only; January goal is 63% Program Measures March YTD LY YTD Number of Repairs 174 1850 1890 Service Calls 33 283 303 Contracted Work or Tows 6 111 144 DOT inspections 0 134 134 Program Budget Objectives February YTD Goal Log 100% of vehicle work orders into EPR Fireworks No Data No Data 100% EMERGENCY COMMUNICATIONS BRANCH Section Report by: Battalion Chief of Communications Budget Category Adj Appropriation YTD Expenditures % Used Goal ECC S&W $1,853,786 $676,864* 35% 63%* 62312 OCE $94,681 $39,940 40% 75% 62610 e-911 OCE $337,760 $219,999 52% 75% Equipment $2,800 $14,000 500% 75% *S&W reporting through 1/31 only; January goal is 63% Program Measures Admin (nonemergency) Total # of 911 calls Avg duration % answered < 10 sec # of calls # of calls 318** 201 84% 471** 789** Program Budget Objectives March YTD Goal EMD Protocol Compliance 70%† or greater 77% 54% >70% 90% of 911 calls answered in <10 seconds 84% 85% 90% Average time to process 911 call <180 201s 189s <180 sec Time from Call to Dispatch <60 seconds @ 90% 167s 147s <60 sec **Number of 9-1-1 and Admin calls are not an accurate count due to technological issues being addressed by the vendor. Data will be updated when available. †Compliance goal to increase 5% per year 2026 | MARCH PAGE 15 SNAPSHOTS AND STORIES OPERATIONS HIGHLIGHTS Battalion 1 • 3/2 Residential structure fire on Uhini Ana Rd Dist.5, Inc# 05254. Co.5, Co.3, Vol 5B and Vol 5D responded for multiple structures on fire. Upon arrival found two single-story residential fires in close proximity of each other. Fires extinguished with a defensive attack and overhauled. Both residences were unoccupied at time of fire, no victims found upon search of the homes. Cause of the fire is under investigation. • 3/14 Kona Low Event. Majority of impacts for the east side of Hawaii island were in the Ka’u, Puna and Volcano districts. Extensive flooding in the Ka’u area shut down roads and power, restricting access to Pahala and Naalehu. Several families were evacuated to shelters in Ka’u and Puna due to flooding and storm related damage to residences. Crews also responded to assist victims trapped in vehicles in flooded areas, trees down on roadways and power lines down throughout the day and night. • 3/16 Residential structure fire in Livingston Subdivision Dist.5, Inc #06542. Co. 5, Co.3, and Co.19 responded to a residential structure fire. Upon arrival found a single-story residential structure fully involved, all occupants out of the structure. Fire extinguished and overhauled, no victims were found upon search of the residence. Cause of the fire is unknown. • 3/20 Missing Swimmer near Honoka’a landing Dist.8 Inc #6972. Co.8 was notified by a concerned party of a missing swimmer from the night prior. Upon investigation enough evidence pointed to a female party missing in the ocean near Haina landing. Search conducted for three days utilizing Rescue boat 2, Chopper 1 and assistance for the USCG with a C130. Search called off after three days due to negative findings. Battalion 2 • 3/13, Inc.# 6285; Tree Fell on Motorcyclist: Co.21 responded to a report of a tree collapse on a motorcyclist. Pt. suffered head injury and transported to KNER by M21.Scene turned over to HPD. • 3/14, Inc.# 6394; Family Rescued from Home: Co.6 responded to report of flooding to a residence with a family of 5 trapped inside due to raging water. Personnel were able to assist 4 of the 5 members out of harms way. 5th Family member chose to remain in the home. • 3/14, Inc.#6395; Vehicle Trapped by Flooding Waters: Co.7 responded to trapped vehicle and was able to assist driver out of vehicle and to safety. No further incident noted. Training: • 3/11-3/12 – Calm the Chaos Training – WUI-2-Day training for B Shift personnel. 2026 | MARCH PAGE 16 FIRE PREVENTION H IGHLIGHTS Community Outreach, Events & Media Engagement March 2: Participated in career day with the Training Division at Waiakea Intermediate School. March 3: Conducted a community assessment with HWMO for Wildfire preparedness in the Kumulani Community. March 4: Fire Prevention Inspector Requelman and Inspector Nakata attended the Career Expo for E.B. DeSilva Elementary School and met with students about becoming a Firefighter! March 6: Career Day at Keaau Middle School March 25: Prevention staff attended an event at Kealakehe for the Hawaii Island Community Health Center career fair. Wildfire Prevention and Fuel Reduction Efforts: 3/2: Participated in Field Operations with UH Manoa, PTA and SWCA GIS mapping and fire break potential areas, DIP Tank sites, access and fuels reduction in high hazard areas surrounding PTA and large landowners 3/5: Met with KS Land Management (Retired Battalion Chief Hayashida) on proper MOU agreement standards and Knox access for KS land parcels on Hawai’i Island 3/6: Captain Goo attended a zoom meeting USDA Spring Seminar Changing Fire Management on the Forsyth Fire  3/6: Captain Goo attended an in-person Hawai’i Wildfire Mitigation Stakeholders Meeting with State Fire Marshal Dori Booth, UH Manoa GIS specialists, PTA, SWCA, Parker Ranch, DHHL, HELCO, KS, MKWA and HWMO 3/18: Met with DHHL, HWMO and UH Manoa to assist in April on a Firebreak and vegetation reduction in Kona Palisades 3/18: Captain Goo participated in the Cross-county Wildfire Council meeting with all fire departments discussing current and future projects as well as discussion between all counties to also include ARFF, PTA and HWMO 3/19: Captain Goo worked on the current N5 Fire Detection systems in District 11 3/23-27: Captain Goo and Chief Carvalho attended the Wildfire Urban Interface Conference in Reno, Nevada 2026 | MARCH PAGE 17 Fire Investigations / UAS Program 3/2: District 5, Ahini Ana Road, Residential Fire OCEAN SAFETY HIGHLIGHTS Heat Map Heat map of Major First Aids, Minor First Aids and Rescues for month of March; Watchtower Program ACC Training West Hawaii HFD Aquatics Competency Certification Training (Operations Instructors Cadre). Kona Aquatics Center 3/09/2026. Hāweo Award WSO Awo; awarded Hāweo Award at the West Hawaiʻi Civic Center. 3/18/26 2026 | MARCH PAGE 18 Public Education/Outreach VOLUNTEER TRAINING 1-A (Pepeʻekeo) 3/7 put up fencing on Hamakua side and back of station. 3/21 participated in community project at Puainako Town Center. Fire engine static display for keiki fun day. Passed out badges, pencils, stickers, candies and chips. Over 250 children attended. Conducted monthly training and maintenance. 5-B (Hawaiian Acres), 5-D (Fern Acres), 6-B (Kona Paradise), 10-D (Ainaloa), 11-A (Naalehu), 11-C (Discovery Harbor), 11-D (Pahala), and 14-A (Kohala) Conducted monthly training and maintenance. 7-B (Kalaoa) Driver training, pump operations, ICS, first aid, PPE training. 8-A (Paʻauilo) 3/5 One call out for smell of smoke alarm, stood down per Capt.8. 3/14 toned out for possible structure fire alarm, stood down per Capt. 8, cooking fire. Conducted FEO audit training with vol Kapihe. 9-A (Waikiʻi) Conducted monthly training on ICS and firefighter safety. Routine Maintenance. 9-B (Kanehoa) Conducted 3 trainings in March that included review of fire extinguisher training, practiced a firefighter down drill with some basic first aid review, and some basic hose drill training. 16-B (Puʻuanahulu) Conducted 35 hours of driver training, performed station and vehicle maintenance, in district size up exercises. Alo Kehau o ka ‘Aina Mauna and Pūnana Leo o Waimea Ocean Safety Workshop at Spencer Beach Park. 3/28/26 Keaukaha Elementary School Career Expo. 3/11/26 2026 | MARCH PAGE 19 19-A (Volcano) 3/9, Conducted FEO audit training for Vol FF Hawk with Capt. Cho. 3/11 Conducted company monthly training with Capt. Cho, FEO audit training consisting of on-scene arrival apparatus placement, pumping ops drill with 19A & 19B companies. 3/18 attended Cooper Center council meeting. 3/25 Vol tasks training with Chief Moller. Performed monthly station cleaning. 19-B (Fern Forest) 3/11 Conducted company monthly training with Capt. Cho, FEO audit training consisting of on-scene arrival apparatus placement, pumping ops drill with 19A & 19B companies. 20-A (HOVE) Conducted monthly training at hydrant (4 personnel attended). 2 callouts for brushfire alarms. TECHNICAL SERVICES HIGHLIGHTS CradlePoint Wi-Fi Settings.  • Changed all CradlePoints Wi-Fi from factory default SSIDs to two hidden SSIDs. Configured MDTs for the new SSIDs. • Uniform SSIDs are needed so Wi-Fi capable radios can be programmed to connect to the Wi-Fi from any HFD vehicle with a CradlePoint installed. • This is needed for Motorola Smart Connect. Smart Connect will allow radios to connect to county Land Mobile Radio (LMR) system via the internet when a radio is out of LMR range. Website ADA Compliance • All sections of hawaiicounty.gov website HFD is responsible for have been revised and made Web Content Accessibility Guidelines (WCAG) 2 compliant. • PDF forms on Fire Department section of hawaiicounty.gov have also been revised for WCAG 2 compliance. • WCAG compliance is a federal mandate, all local (county) governments must be compliant by 4/24/2026. Backup engine HFD 441 CradlePoint Installation. • Reconfigured and moved CradlePoint from HFD 625 which hasn’t been used as a backup engine to HFD 441 which has been often used as a backup and is currently being used as E10. • The MDT can be undocked from primary frontline engine and be docked into HFD 441 AC Controller for ECC • Worked with AC vendor to get a laptop setup for the AC controller at the Emergency Communication Center (ECC). • Setup will allow for DPW and Vendor to remotely monitor and control the AC system at the ECC 2026 | MARCH PAGE 20 SAFETY PROGRAM Respiratory Protection Program • Most breathing air compressors successfully recertified in March: o Pahoa TCOM: passed 3/7/26, certified through June 5, 2026 o Makalei TCOM: passed 3/10/26, certified through June 8, 2026 o Haihai TCOM: passed 3/10/26, certified through June 8, 2026 o Training (Haihai) Mako: passed 3/14/26, certified through June 12, 2026 o Waiakea Mako: certification expired March 20, 2026; currently Out of Service pending recertification and updated sample results. • Compressor issues: o Haihai TCOM-light: ongoing issues with corroded electrical connection and keeping unit running; staff reports ability to obtain air samples. o Mobile Mako 5400 at Haihai (Training): air leak on bank #4 (Out of Commission) identified 1/26/26; no update; PSI and Mechanics coordinating assessment/repair. o Request for PSI in-service training for Haihai personnel remains pending (PSI response delayed; not available on recent trips; requested for future Hilo-side visit). • IFB 26-0129 awarded to PSI for Bauer TCOM replacement; estimated delivery late June/July 2026. Coordination with Training & National Fallen Firefighters Foundation • “Taking Care of Our Own” (LODD) training successfully hosted by HFD at Training Branch (Haihai) on March 5–6, 2026; registration was full for both days. • NFFF online (Zoom) info session on the Public Safety Officer Benefit Program held March 4, 2026, at 1400 hrs. • Meeting held with HBMC on March 23, 2026, regarding updates to the LODD Plan. Procurement of NFPA Ground Ladder Testing Equipment/Supplies • Order (PO issued November 2025) finally shipped after vendor issues resolved; transferred in Honolulu to barge for Kona delivery. ETA to Warehouse “days” as of 3/27/26. Fiscal processed invoice and is holding check until receipt and acceptance. • Working with AC1 to issue memo soliciting interested personnel to finalize testing procedure and draft training materials/resources. Rollout planning (including potential video creation) to follow delivery. 2026 | MARCH PAGE 21 Environmental / Mold & Lead Testing • Professional Services contract for comprehensive environmental testing (mold, lead, etc.) approved by Corporate Counsel and now circulating for signatures. • Lehua Environmental testing conducted at Kaumana on February 19, 2026; results pending (did not include mold sampling). New roof leaks reported in Kaumana locker room on 3/29/26; work orders submitted. • Follow-up particle sampling completed at multiple stations: o Waiakea: air quality good overall; no immediate actions required. o Kaumana: select areas (Captain’s Dorm, Captain’s Bathroom) showed indoor counts 2–2.3× outdoor averages; main dormitory ~1.5× outdoor. Continued pursuit of formal professional mold testing recommended given water damage history. o Keaʻau: indoor elevations in moisture-prone areas support need for formal professional testing amid past roof issues and slow remediation. o Kailua (#7): follow-up on 3/24/26 showed new roof leaks in breezeway and Captain’s locker area; current data does not indicate active widespread mold, but legacy HVAC + new moisture creates risk. Work orders submitted. Earlier sampling showed moderate consistent levels with no active amplification. • Station 18: Mold reported in several AC units on 3/22/26. Evaluated 3/23/26; units steam-cleaned by crew. No visible fuzzy mold (minor black discoloration in crevices); air particle readings are significantly cleaner indoors than outdoors with no mold-spore spikes. Researching feasibility of station-level procedure for window AC coil cleaning, antimicrobial treatment, and drain-pan service (no current vendor). • Temporary Central Fire Station: Condensation/moisture observed on high-ceiling dorm panels due to temperature stratification and high outdoor humidity. Air quality remained good with no mold or elevated particulates, dorm safe for occupancy. Dehumidifier obtained by Warehouse and proven effective. Crews advised to raise temperature and use ceiling/directional fans during rainy/high-humidity periods. Joint Safety Committee • March 25, 2026, meeting cancelled due to HFFA scheduling conflict. Proposed shift to 2nd Wednesday of each month (next tentatively April 8, 2026 @ 1000 hrs); committee consensus/approval pending. Safety Concerns and Inspections • County Safety Division recommendation for industrial ladder safety training following in-station cleaning injury (gray area due to non-emergency context). Evaluated American Ladder Institute online modules for step and mobile ladders (most relevant to fire service use); coordinating rollout options with Training Branch. • Reminder process for correct use of Incident/Accident vs. Vehicle/Equipment/Property Damage reports ongoing; draft memo in coordination with HR. • Fire extinguisher vendor issue with aircraft extinguishers resolved through clarifications between vendor and DOM (personnel familiarity gap addressed). 2026 | MARCH PAGE 22 • Coordination with UH/HDOT for Eyes on the Road Program: potential installation of forward-facing dash cameras on units/medic units. Reviewing terms/conditions; concerns regarding inability to disable cab-facing audio/video. One camera currently under 1–2 week pilot test/evaluation. • Met with Exact Sciences representative regarding blood-based cancer screening test (screens >50 cancers, 68% sensitivity/97% specificity). Evaluating options to host/facilitate screening events ($630–689 per test with payment plan ~$50/month out-of-pocket). Contact made with UH Cancer Center Director of Community Outreach; meeting scheduled for 3/31/26 to explore program adaptations/expansions for HFD personnel. • Discussions with DOH Clean Air Branch regarding hosting non-regulated air-quality sensors for Volcano and Puna coverage gaps: no update. Other • COOP exercise for Admin conducted Friday, March 27, 2026; draft After-Action Report (AAR) circulating for review/comments due COB Thursday, April 2, 2026. ALOHA EXCHANGE FIREFIGHTER OF THE YEAR Battalion Chief Kaʻaina Keawe was recognized as the 2025 Firefighter of the Year by the Aloha Exchange Club of East Hawaiʻi on March 7, an honor that reflects his steady leadership, operational depth, and long-standing commitment to HFD. A 2006 recruit, Chief Keawe has contributed across multiple disciplines, including rescue and hazardous materials, and has continued to strengthen the department through leadership development, training initiatives, and practical safety improvements for personnel. He was specifically recognized not only for his broad professional contributions, but also for the example he sets in moments of need, including responding off duty to relieve crews at a significant downtown Hilo structure fire. Congratulations, Chief Keawe! 2026 | MARCH PAGE 23 THROUGH THE YEARS This month’s flashback is to July 16, 1978, via the Hawaiʻi Tribune Herald. 2026 | MARCH PAGE 24 Instagram channel link YouTube channel linkFacebook channel link To submit a Throwback photo, please upload it to the SharePoint folder (Documents, Throwback Photos) or email fire@hawaiicounty.gov. Printed photos may also be brought to Fire Administration for scanning and archival and will be returned upon request. STAY CONNECTED! 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