Mauna Loa erupting

[TomK]

"Why would fire engines have to go over Saddle Road when there are fire engines all over the island, including Pohakuloa?"

That is a good question but fact of the matter is they do drive back and forth over the saddle.  Quote from the spouse of a fireman.

I didn't say they don't use Saddle Road, I can imagine and know of many scenarios when they have; if further assistance is needed, e.g., to fight a large wildfire and they certainly use the road if they have to attend to situations when the road is the only way to get there, e.g., Mauna Kea. It's also the fastest route between the west and east side. It'll be a bit of a bummer if the lava flow sets off wildfires that the fire trucks can't get to if Saddle Road is cut off. So I just don't get what point you are making.