Credit: Whitney Kruehl
More often than you may think, catalytic convertors are responsible for a number of wildfires throughout the State of Hawaii. Even in sparsely populated Kahoolawe, wildfires can occur - all it takes is one spark. Park cars on areas that are paved or where vegetation is trimmed and cleared. Be especially careful on days when it's windy!
"Personnel from the Wailea fire station confirmed a large smoke column of smoke coming from the island and the department’s helicopter was dispatched to investigate.
When Air 1 arrived, the pilot reported about 10 acres of brush and kiawe on fire. Air 2 was quickly dispatched to assist before the fire spread beyond control.
When both helicopters left the island at 6:20 p.m., the fire was 100% contained and had burned an additional five acres."