The Maui Fire Department would like to encourage the public not to hesitate to call 911 when they see flames, see or smell smoke. We are more than happy to come out and investigate the situation and take the appropriate action.

During the last two months, there have been numerous cases where small fires or “hot spots” have emerged in the Upcountry area. These are the result of organic material continuing to smolder underground from the fires this August. When organic material, heat, and oxygen come together, tiny smoldering underground fires continue to burn. These small hot spots are undetectable until they emerge from underground, producing smoke (or the smell of smoke), flames, and heat at the surface. Most of these hot spots are in or adjacent to the burn scars from this summer’s fires.

The situation becomes more dangerous when yard waste, tree trimmings, mulch, and logs are in the area. The Maui Fire Department encourages homeowners to not pile these items within 100 feet of structures. It is preferred that these wastes be taken to an appropriate facility and disposed of that way rather than left on the property.

A list of County of Maui waste disposal facilities can be found here: https://www.mauicounty.gov/765/Landfill-Information

We provide tips on a variety of safety and fire prevention topics on our social media sites: https://www.mauicounty.gov/2062/Social-Media-Center

Additional information and tips to prepare your home, property, and neighborhood to reduce its susceptibility to wildfire can be found here: https://www.hawaiiwildfire.org/home