KEA‘AU, HI – The Hawai‘i Fire Department responded to a significant fire at Big Island Scrap Metal, located at 16-168 Kalara Street, Kea‘au, on Monday morning. The blaze, involving a 50′ x 50′ x 12′ pile of scrap metal and large tires, was reported at 8:51 a.m. and was fully extinguished by 10:28 a.m.
The fire was sparked by a vehicle compactor crushing a car, igniting the scrap pile under a covered, open steel metal building. Upon arrival, Engine 5 (E-5) found the fire contained to the scrap pile. The team extended two 1 3/4″ preconnect attack lines for initial suppression, while additional manpower from Company 3 was requested. Water supply was secured from a fire hydrant across the street, and the deck gun was deployed for heavy suppression efforts.
Heavy equipment operators from BISM utilized three excavators to dig and access the core of the fire. The Hawai‘i Police Department (HPD) temporarily closed Kalara Street to ensure public safety and notified nearby businesses of potential smoke hazards.
No injuries were reported. The estimated property saved is valued at $625,000, although the total loss amount remains unknown.
This incident underscores the importance of fire safety measures in industrial operations. The Hawai‘i Fire Department commended the swift actions of both their team and supporting agencies in managing the situation effectively.