Kauaʻi Fire Department blesses three new brush trucks, high water rescue vehicle on May 20
LĪHUʻE – The Kauaʻi Fire Department (KFD) held a blessing on Wednesday, May 20, to welcome three new brush trucks and a new high water rescue vehicle in front of the Historic County Building in Līhu‘e. The blessing was performed by KFD Chaplain Zachary Sui.
“These new vehicles represent a significant step forward in our department’s readiness and our ability to protect the people of Kauaʻi in some of the most challenging emergency conditions we face,” said KFD Chief Michael Gibson. “Our brush trucks are essential as we continue to strengthen our wildfire response readiness and our ability to access remote and rugged areas safely. The high water rescue vehicle expands our capacity to respond during flooding events, which we have already seen put this equipment to use during recent Kona Low storms. These capabilities translate directly into safer outcomes for our crews and for the community members who depend on us during emergencies.”
The three new brush trucks were purchased at a total cost of over $554,000 to replace aging units. The replacement trucks provide improved reliability, enhanced safety features, and higher ground clearance, allowing KFD crews safer access and egress into difficult off-road and wildland environments during emergency operations.
The high water rescue vehicle was purchased for over $140,000 and provides a critical emergency response capability during flooding events similar to those experienced during the 2018 Hanalei floods. The vehicle has already proven valuable during recent Kona Low storm conditions, assisting in the rescue of approximately 18 to 19 stranded kayakers in Wailua and supporting operations in flooded and hazardous environments where traditional emergency vehicles would have limited access.
The new equipment reflects KFD’s ongoing efforts to modernize its fleet, strengthen wildfire response readiness, and ensure that crews have the tools and resources needed to safely access remote and high-risk areas during emergencies.
Kauaʻi Fire Department personnel, county leaders, and guests gather in front of the Historic County Building following the blessing of three new brush trucks and a new high water rescue vehicle.
 Three new Kauaʻi Fire Department brush trucks and a new high water rescue vehicle lined up at the Līhuʻe Civic Center ahead of a blessing ceremony. The four vehicles represent a combined investment of nearly $695,000 in KFD's wildfire and flood response capabilities.
 KFD Chaplain Zachary Sui offered a blessing for the new Kauaʻi Fire Department vehicles as KFD personnel, county leadership, and guests look from the Historic County Building lawn.
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