"The brush fire burns Saturday night near Kawaihae. Maisie Grossart/Special to West Hawaii Today"
Mahalo to our firefighter agencies who have been working tirelessly in a collaborative effort to help protect communities and other resources from the biggest wildfire on Hawaii Island this year. Chief Moller of PTA explained: "a fire on an island is like a submarine — everyone has to work together to save it."
Also mahalo to all those who cooperated with the fire departments and left gifts for firefighters. "It's important for the firefighters to know they are so well supported by the community," Chief Rosario said.
"The fire ran within a foot of the road into the village and came closer to the bank of mailboxes at the end of the street.
However, the line held and the town suffered no damage, beyond scorched fields and a burned out car in an exterior lot."
"Rosario said the public cooperation made for a much safer and more effective effort.
'I know it’s difficult to have someone come to your door and ask you to leave,' he said, but it’s important for response.
There were also many gifts provided to the firefighters. Food and drinks were brought in throughout the day and stacked on a picnic table.
It’s important for the firefighters to know they are so well supported by the community, Rosario said."