VIDEO: The Hawaiian Fire Crisis: How to Help
In this special episode of If Walls Could Talk, W&C Group Publisher Jill Bloom speaks to Steve Slepcevic, CEO of Strategic Response Partners, on the horrific situation in the Hawaii wildfires.
Slepcevic was one of the first responders that helped as the fires broke out. He explains what type of help was available and how the situation developed.
“The response to this wildfire, based on results was one of the worst responses and was poorly executed. There are people that were going through Lahaina freely; there was no security checkpoints. Some people weren’t even aware of it,” he says. “There was an alert system that failed.”
As of August 22, 114 people have died as a result of the fires in Maui. The wildfires, fanned by strong winds, burned multiple buildings, forced evacuations and caused power outages in several communities.
How can people help? Well, there are search parties still in place. Community, national and global help/assistance will no doubt be needed at some level. The Hawaiian people are helping Hawaiian people. Many people coming from the mainland need to be respectful and follow the laws. Many utilities are down. Do not come in to help if you don’t have secured housing, Slepcevic says.
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Jill Bloom is the innovative Executive Director of Roofing Contractor, Walls & Ceilings, Building Enclosure, Roofing Supply Pro, and the highly regarded Best of Success event. With a deep commitment to advancing the roofing, construction, and building enclosure industries, Jill oversees a robust portfolio of publications, podcasts, and events that empower professionals with knowledge, inspiration, and connections.
Her brands deliver exceptional value across multiple platforms, including:
- Techos y Más, the Spanish-language newsletter of Roofing Contractor.
- Safety Advisor, a newsletter focused on critical resources for jobsite safety.
- Thermal Talk, a newsletter focused on insights and news for the insulation contractor.
- eRock, a leading newsletter for drywall contractors.
- The Enclosure Experts podcast, offering architects deep insights into building enclosure technologies.
- If Walls Could Talk, a podcast dedicated to exploring trends and innovations for the wall and ceiling contractor.
- The Best of Success Podcast, providing thought leadership and practical advice for roofing professionals.
Jill’s passion for professional development and fostering industry connections is exemplified by the Best of Success event, a premier gathering of contractors, suppliers, and thought leaders for unmatched education and networking.
