HOLOMUA Volume 26 Issue 4

Strengthening Wildfire Resilience: Insights from the Hawaii Wildfire Summit

The Hawaii Wildfire Summit, organized by the Hawaii Wildfire Management Organization (HWMO), was held on February 27-28 at the Outrigger Kona Resort and Spa. The event brought together leaders and experts from various fields to collaborate on advancing wildfire preparedness, mitigation, and management in Hawaii. Senior Vice President Lance Kawano attended on behalf of FICOH and shared these takeaways. A Collaborative Approach to Wildfire Readiness HWMO and its partners emphasized the importance of a system-wide approach to wildfire risk reduction. Over the course of two days, participants engaged in discussions, hands-on training, and strategic planning to enhance community resilience. Key topics included wildfire prevention strategies, home safety measures, and the role of technology in early fire detection and response. Home Condition Matters Scientific evidence continues to show that home conditions play a significant role in fire risk. Well-maintained homes, constructed with fire-resistant materials and designed to limit ember intrusion, have a much lower chance of burning in a wildfire. However, many homes in Hawaii are built to encourage airflow, making them more vulnerable to flying embers in high-wind events. Encouraging Fire-Resistant Practices The insurance industry has an opportunity to support fire prevention by considering modest rate incentives for communities and homeowners who take proactive measures, such as: • Achieving community-wide wildfire prevention qualifications • Using fire-resistant building materials Implementing defensible space strategies around homes Harnessing Technology for Fire Detection HECO has made notable strides in reducing wildfire risk by implementing AI-powered cameras and replacing utility poles in high-risk areas. These high-quality cameras provide 24/7 fire and heat detection, significantly improving the ability of fire departments to respond swiftly. Community and Environmental Efforts The summit highlighted the importance of integrating wildfire risk reduction with broader environmental and community initiatives. Efforts to control non-native grasses — one of the primary fuels for wildfires — through removal and the planting of native species are proving effective. Fire breaks remain a key tool in minimizing fire spread and protecting communities. Insurance Industry Participation While there were many questions and misperceptions about insurance policies and wildfire coverage, the discussions were positive and underscored the shared goal of reducing risk and enhancing community safety. Some mainland insurance carriers have already begun adopting similar incentives, setting a potential model for Hawaii.

By continuing to engage in collaborative efforts with organizations like HWMO, our industry can help build wildfire resilience in Hawaii. FICOH is exploring additional ways to partner with HWMO in the future.