The Fire Season of 2000 on the mainland will long be remembered as a season that destroyed millions of acres of forests, destroyed homes and property, and left a permanent scar on the landscape. Wild land fires threaten us in Hawaii as well. Between 1998 and 2000, there were 462 wildfires reported here, that consumed over 60,000 acres. While these numbers are small compared to the continental U.S., we are an island state, whose quality of life depends on healthy forested watershed that filter rains into our streams and aquifers and keep our ocean waters and reefs clean and alive. In many areas after fires, flammable invasive grasses replace native vegetation. This starts the vicious cycle of subsequent fires that burn hotter and larger, threatening many of Hawaii's endangered plants and animals.

Many homes in Hawaii can be classified as being in the wild land urban interface, the area where homes and forest and/or brush land meet. Many homes are also surrounded by forest and brush land. We urge you to take preventive actions to keep your homes fire-safe and be prepared to deal with wildfires. Make sure you have "defensible space" between your home and the surrounding vegetation. Prune dead branches and other vegetation that can create a "fuel ladder" that allow flames to climb into your property. Make sure you have room for fire trucks and equipment to access your property in case of an emergency.

I ask you to keep in mind in being fire-wise and fire-safe. Visit the DOFAW Fire Web Site to get tips on how to protect your home and property. Contact your local fire department or the Division of Forestry and Wildlife office on your island.

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