Kula Fire Detection Cameras
After the devastating events of August 8th, the team at Mālama Kula was committed to using every tool possible to keep our community safer.
One of those tools is an AI-enabled, fire-detection camera, which is able to detect fire and smoke anomalies up to 20 miles away.
Utilizing software through AlertWest, Mālama Kula and some dedicated residents were able to install, activate, and deploy two of these in cameras in July, 2024 (less than one year after the fire from idea to implementation!), which now watch over Upcountry and Central Maui 24 hours per day.
When fire or smoke are detected on the cameras, an alert is issued to Maui Fire Department as well as Mālama Kula administrators.
While nothing can dull the devastation and pain experienced by our community, we were fortunate in a way that the Kula Fire began at 11:30am. Had it started at night, with much delayed detection, and minimal time to respond, the probability of loss of life would’ve undoubtedly been much higher.
In a situation where minutes matter, having this early detection technology is another way that Mālama Kula is working to make our neighbors—and community—safer.
Aside from enabling early detection (and quicker ability to warn the neighbors), they can also help with monitoring flareups—something that’s been proven to be a problem here in Kula, as roots can burn for months underground.
This program was 100% conceived, installed, and deployed by community members—which is why were able to move so quickly and get these cameras online and operating only 11 months after the fire.
It isn’t grant funded.
It isn’t government funded.
It’s funded by private donations.
If you would like to help keep this asset in our community, consider making a donation below, or contact Mālama Kula at:
malamakula@gmail.com
for ways to help fund this important resource that keeps our community safer.