The historic town of Lahaina on the island of Maui was devastated by a wildfire nearly six months ago. In a recent report, the Maui Police Department outlined its efforts to improve response and preparedness for future tragedies. Among the 32 recommendations listed in the preliminary “after-action” report, the department plans to acquire better equipment and station a high-ranking officer at the island’s communications center during emergencies.
An Extraordinary Response
The report highlights the commitment and dedication of the Maui Police Department, together with other emergency response agencies, in ensuring the safety of residents, coordinating evacuations, and providing support to those affected. The bravery and resilience demonstrated by the officers, personnel, and members of the community have been remarkable in the face of such a devastating event.
Enhancing Equipment and Technology
Many of the report’s recommendations focus on improving equipment and updating technology. This includes providing officers with earpieces to overcome communication challenges during high winds and equipping patrol cars with breaching kits to clear roadways blocked by fallen trees or utility poles. The aim is to enhance the effectiveness of emergency response efforts.
Strengthening Communications
Efficient communication between emergency personnel and officers is crucial during recovery efforts. To improve coordination, the report suggests stationing a high-ranking officer in the communications center to facilitate the relay of information to police commanders. Furthermore, officers in the field will receive more frequent briefings. These measures aim to ensure effective communication and a coordinated response during emergencies.
Ongoing Investigation and Future Preparedness
The cause of the wildfire is still under investigation, being conducted by external experts at the request of the Hawaii attorney general’s office. The investigation, led by the Fire Safety Research Institute, is expected to take several months to complete. Meanwhile, the after-action report compiled by the Maui Police Department will be shared with law enforcement agencies nationwide to help them better prepare for similar catastrophic events.
A Call for Preparedness
During a recent news conference, Police Chief John Pelletier emphasized the thoroughness and importance of the after-action report. He mentioned that it had been reviewed by external agencies and would be finalized within a year after incorporating suggestions. Chief Pelletier also invited individuals who believe they can make a difference to consider joining the Maui Police Department.
Tireless Search and Recovery Efforts
Chief Pelletier highlighted the extensive efforts made to locate the remains of the three individuals still reported as missing after the wildfire. Strategies were developed, anthropological teams were deployed to potential escape routes, and excavation work was undertaken to search through the rubble. No lead will be left unexplored, and the search continues until all missing individuals are accounted for.
A Tragic Toll
The wildfire, fueled by high winds from a passing hurricane, spread rapidly through dry, invasive grasses. Residents faced treacherous conditions, encountering roadblocks and traffic jams due to fires and downed power lines. Regrettably, communication systems failed during the chaos. The report emphasizes the confusion and terror experienced by trapped residents, as reflected in the recorded 911 calls.
Honoring the Victims
The report reveals that 42 victims were found inside structures, 15 in cars, 39 outdoors, and one in the ocean. The remains collected included fragments as small as a quarter. Although over 50 victims have been identified through DNA analysis, one missing person had no biological relative available for comparison. However, authorities were able to identify her using DNA analysis from a hairbrush she had used, which was provided by a family friend.
A Path Towards Recovery
While the investigation into the cause of the wildfire continues, the Maui Police Department is committed to ensuring that the necessary lessons are learned from this tragic event. The department’s efforts to improve equipment, communications, and preparedness will contribute to a more effective response in the future.
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Source: Better equipment, communications needed in wake of Lahaina wildfire, Maui police say in report