Hawaiian Electric is sending drones over Hawaii Island to find equipment that could spark a wildfire, a cautious step that should lower fire risk for residents.

• Aerial inspections of power lines and gear start this week, run by contractor Cyberhawk.
• Flights happen on weekdays during daytime hours, so people nearby will hear extra buzzing overhead.
• Ground crews will also be out, wearing Cyberhawk hard hats and vests.
• The push follows the deadly Maui fires that put the utility's equipment under heavy scrutiny.

Outlook: Expect more drone flights and tighter equipment checks across the islands as the utility works to avoid another fire linked to its lines.