Fire Preparedness

Laʻie is largely surrounded by lush foliage and steep mountain ridges. Because of these conditions, the area is susceptible to fire risks—including wildfires in nearby wooded and agricultural areas, structural fires within buildings, and fires related to ongoing construction activity on campus. Understanding these risks and knowing how to respond can help protect lives and property.

Types of Fires

Wildfires

Wildfires are uncontrolled fires that burn in natural or agricultural areas. In Laʻie, areas more prone to wildfires include the farming area behind the BYU–Hawaii campus and the terrain above the Laʻie Falls hiking trail. Strong winds and dry conditions can allow fires to spread quickly.

Building Fires

Building fires occur inside residences or campus facilities. Although infrequent, structural fires have occurred on the BYU–Hawaii campus, highlighting the importance of fire safety awareness, especially in university housing and shared spaces.

Common Causes of Fires

Common causes of fires on campus include:

• Cooking-related
  
  • Unattended stove tops
• Electrical and appliance-related
  
  • Mini fridges
  • Electric pots
  • Overloaded or damaged electrical cords

• Open flames

  • Candles
• Battery-related
  
  • E-bikes and e-scooters
  • Lithium-ion batteries

If an e-bike, e-scooter, or its charger catches fire, a standard fire extinguisher cannot effectively contain the flames. For this reason, charging e-bikes or e-scooters inside any campus building or residence is prohibited.

Fire Prevention and Preparation

• Sign up for BYUH Alerts to stay informed during emergencies.
• Be familiar with evacuation routes and designated assembly areas in your workplace or residence.
• Keep hallways, exits, and stairwells clear of personal items.
• Never disable smoke detectors or fire alarms.

University Prevention Efforts

Safety & Risk Management has implemented several fire prevention measures and emergency procedures to help ensure the safety of students, faculty, and staff, including:

• Fire safety awareness training.
• Regular residential fire drills.
• Department fire drills upon request.
• Routine inspections of fire safety equipment.

Department Responsibilities

Important: Every department should review its fire evacuation plans each semester, especially when staffing, room layouts, or operations change.

During a Fire

If you hear a fire alarm or receive a fire alert:

• Evacuate immediately. Do not wait to gather belongings.
• Do not attempt to fight large fires.
• Do not use elevators.
• Assist others if it is safe to do so.
• Close doors behind you as you exit to help slow the spread of fire.
• Once you are in a safe location, call emergency services or Campus Security.

Evacuation Locations

Every residential and campus facility has a posted evacuation plan. Follow posted evacuation routes and move to the designated assembly area. Speak with your building coordinator to locate evacuation maps in your workplace, hale, or apartment.

Do not re-enter buildings until authorities indicate it is safe to do so.

Training and Resources

For more information, email safetyriskmgmt@byuh.edu.

Make a difference and get fire extinguisher training. Registration and training is free.