Maui Emergency Chief quits amid criticism for not deploying siren alerts

Maui's emergency management agency chief, Herman Andaya, resigned Aug. 17 after he defended not activating emergency sirens in response to the deadly wildfires. (Video: Reuters) “Given the gravity of the crisis we are facing, my team and I will be placing someone in this key position as quickly as possible,” Bissen added. Outdoor alert sirens are widespread on Maui and residents have grown used to hearing them activated for regular testing, in anticipation of public emergencies such as tsunamis and earthquakes. However, many residents have criticized the decision by Andaya’s...