Bill > HR163

This resolution calls on the Office of the State Fire Marshal and the State Fire Council to clearly define stages of wildfire suppression in the Hawaii State Fire Code, motivated by recent devastating wildfires like the Lahaina fire of 2023 and the recognition that lingering hotspots can cause fires to reignite. Specifically, the resolution requests that the fire code include precise definitions for terms such as "uncontrolled", "contained", "controlled", "extinguished", and "fully extinguished", with the definition of "fully extinguished" requiring constant monitoring to ensure no hotspots or smoke exist for at least 48 hours (or 96 hours during red flag warnings or drought conditions). The resolution highlights the importance of clear terminology for public communication, internal guidelines, fire operations, suppression actions, formal reporting, and fire safety regulations. The resolution also directs that certified copies be sent to various state and county fire officials, including the State Fire Marshal, State Fire Council, county fire chiefs, Fire Prevention Bureaus, and legislative leadership.

Justice, Military Affairs and Security

https://www.capitol.hawaii.gov/session/measure_indiv.aspx?billtype=HR&billnumber=163&year=2025