Lessons From the H-Power Fire: Safe Disposal on Oʻahu

Safe Disposal on Oʻahu | When Waste Turns Dangerous: Lessons from the H-Power Fire in Kapolei.

A recent fire at the H-Power facility in Kapolei — reportedly linked to improperly disposed propane tanks — is a serious reminder: how we dispose of everyday items matters. At Ku Paʻa Total Care, we’re committed to safe, responsible hauling and disposal across Oʻahu. Here’s what happened, why it matters, and how you can prevent similar hazards on your property.

Why the Kapolei fire matters for Oʻahu residents

H-Power converts trash to energy for the island. When hazardous items like propane tanks, batteries, or pressurized containers are mixed with general waste, they can cause fires or explosions at processing plants. Beyond immediate danger, incidents strain our waste infrastructure and risk environmental damage—issues Hawaiʻi can least afford.

Common hazardous items people accidentally throw away

• Propane cylinders & tanks

• Lithium batteries (from tools, phones, e-bikes)

• Paint, solvents, and aerosol cans

• Refrigerators & appliances with refrigerants

• Gasoline or oily rags

  
  

How to recognize hazardous items before pick-up

If an item contains fuel, gas, a battery, or pressure — treat it as hazardous. When in doubt, don’t place it with curbside trash. Ask your hauler or contact Ku Paʻa for guidance.

What to do if you need safe disposal on Oʻahu

1. Separate hazardous items from regular junk.

2. Keep batteries in taped terminals or original packaging.

3. Contact a professional hauler who follows Oʻahu disposal rules.

4. Use local hazardous waste collection events when available.

   
   

How Ku Paʻa Total Care protects customers and the community

• We screen loads and identify hazardous items before pickup.

• We separate, label, and transport hazardous materials to approved facilities.

• We partner with local recycling and donation centers whenever possible.

• We train crews on safe handling, PPE, and proper transport procedures.

  
  

Real-life examples we handle

• Appliance pickups with refrigerants routed to certified disposal centers.

• Construction cleanouts where contractors separate paint and solvents for safe disposal.

• Residential cleanups where homeowners are unsure what can be thrown away — we assess and advise.

  
  

Why safe disposal helps keep Oʻahu running

A single fire at a waste facility can force temporary closures, increase disposal costs, and create service delays island-wide. Proper disposal reduces risk, protects workers, and supports long-term sustainability.

Quick checklist: Safe disposal steps before booking a hauler

• Remove propane tanks and store them separately.

• Tape battery terminals and keep batteries in a separate container.

• Keep flammable liquids sealed and labeled.

• Share product receipts or photos with your hauler so they can advise

  
  

FAQ

Q: What caused the H-Power fire in Kapolei?

A: Officials suspect improperly disposed propane tanks mixed with municipal waste triggered the fire. Investigations continue, but the incident underscores the danger of putting pressurized gas containers in general trash.

Q: How should I dispose of a propane tank on Oʻahu?

A: Small, empty propane cylinders often need to be returned to the retailer or taken to a hazardous waste drop-off. Larger tanks may require certification before disposal. Contact Ku Paʻa for assistance — we’ll assist with routing tanks to the correct facility.

Q: Are batteries hazardous for disposal?

A: Yes. Lithium batteries can short, spark, and cause fires. Tape terminals and keep batteries separate—don’t mix them with regular trash.

Q: Can Ku Paʻa haul hazardous items?

A: Ku Paʻa will assess waste and coordinate safe removal and delivery of hazardous materials to authorized facilities. We follow Oʻahu’s disposal regulations and partner with certified processors for safe handling.

Don’t guess with hazardous materials — protect your home and our island.

Call Ku Paʻa Total Care for safe, responsible hauling and disposal across Oʻahu. 

Visit kupaatc.com or call 808-354-5591 to get a certified pick-up and responsible disposal.