NR 10-01-25 (Wildfire preparedness outreach in Pākalā Camp set for Oct. 6)

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DEREK S.K. KAWAKAMI, MAYOR
REIKO MATSUYAMA, MANAGING DIRECTOR

News Release

For Immediate Release: October 1, 2025

Wildfire preparedness outreach in Pākalā Camp set for Oct. 6

PAKALA – The Kaua‘i Emergency Management Agency (KEMA), in partnership with various partners, will continue wildfire preparedness outreach effort on Monday, October 6, in Pākalā Camp, from 8:30 a.m. to noon.

Kaumakani Camp and Kaumakani Avenue are the first in a series of initiatives planned for communities across the island that are vulnerable to wildfires. 

The first outreach event in this series took place throughout Kaumakani Camp on July 14, followed by Kaumakani Avenue on August 20. 

As part of this outreach, officials from various county and partner agencies will be canvassing Pākalā Camp, going door-to-door to share information on the “Be Ready, Be Set, Go Now!” evacuation levels, how to create evacuation plans, prepare emergency go-kits, and stay informed during rapidly changing wildfire conditions. 

“Preparedness is one of the most powerful tools we have to keep our families and communities safe,” said Mayor Derek S.K. Kawakami. “Wildfire risks are real, as we saw with the Hanapēpē-Kaumakani wildfire last year. By coming together as neighbors and staying informed, we can help protect each other. Mahalo to Gay and Robinson, our partners, and the Kaumakani community for being proactive and taking these steps to stay safe.” 

“Every minute counts during a wildfire,” said Elton Ushio, Administrator of KEMA. “Our goal with these door-to-door efforts is to reach people directly and ensure they know what steps to take before, during, and after a wildfire. Being ready and having a plan can save lives.” 

“Wildfires can move fast and become dangerous in a matter of moments,” said Kaua‘i Fire Chief Michael Gibson. “If you feel unsafe, don’t wait—evacuate right away. It’s always better to leave early than risk getting caught in a dangerous situation. Our priority is keeping our residents and responders safe.” 

Partners supporting this outreach include Gay and Robinson, the Kaua‘i Fire Department, Kaua‘i Police Department, Kaua‘i Island Utility Cooperative, Kaua‘i Department of Water, and the Office of the Mayor. 

Residents are also encouraged to monitor the County of Kaua‘i website and social media channels for emergency updates and preparedness information. 

To view the “Be Ready, Be Set, Go Now!” evacuation levels, visit https://www.kauai.gov/files/assets/public/v/1/office-of-the-mayor/documents/be-ready-be-set-go-now.pdf. 

If you require an auxiliary aid or service, an interpreter for non-English speakers, or another accommodation due to a disability, please contact the Kaua‘i Emergency Management Agency at 808-241-1800 or email KEMA@kauai.gov as soon as possible. Early requests are encouraged to ensure adequate time to meet your needs. Upon request, this notice is available in alternate formats, including large print, Braille, or electronic copy. 

To sign up for the county’s free emergency notification service, Wireless Emergency Notification System (WENS), please go to the county website, www.kauai.gov/KEMA, and click “WENS.” 

Those without Internet access can have their phone number and other pertinent information added to the county database by calling the Kaua‘i Emergency Management Agency at 808-241-1800.

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