Residents encouraged to take action on annual Wildfire Community Preparedness Day

Residents are encouraged to take steps to reduce wildfire risks around their homes and neighborhoods, as part of the annual Wildfire Community Preparedness Day on Saturday.

Coordinated by the National Fire Protection Association, the day is held on the first Saturday in May to have people and organizations join in raising awareness and reducing wildfire risks.

In proclaiming May 3, 2025, as Wildfire Community Preparedness Day, Mayor Richard Bissen asked residents to support efforts to make communities safer.

“As we continue to move forward with ongoing recovery efforts, it is critical that we learn more about how to protect our homes and communities,” Mayor Bissen said. “We must never lose sight of the risks of wildfires, especially as we begin the summer dry season. The importance of preparedness can never be underestimated, and our shared efforts contribute to prevention and mitigation.”

Preventative measures include:

• Keeping a 5-foot combustible-free zone around your home.
• Removing vegetation within 30 feet of your home.
• Storing combustible materials, including firewood and propane tanks, in areas away from homes, decks and other structures.
• Regularly removing leaves, debris and other materials from roofs and gutters to prevent fire from spreading.
• Coordinating a family plan for emergencies.
• Keeping a go-bag with family essentials in an easy-to-reach place.

“Preparedness is a kākou thing,” said County of Maui Fire Chief Brad Ventura. “Wildfire Community Preparedness Day empowers us to take simple, life-saving steps today to prevent wildfires tomorrow. We encourage every resident to get involved, stay informed, and be a part of building a stronger, fire-resilient community. As we enter our drought season, fires will be more prevalent so taking preventative measures around your home to reduce ember ignition can make all the difference.”

More information on preparing for wildfire is available from the Hawaiʻi Wildfire Management Organization at https://www.hwmo.org/get-prepared-materials.