Now that hurricane season has started, it’s time to review and update plans to protect your family and property in the event that a hurricane should reach our islands.
 
Before a hurricane approaches

• Develop a family emergency plan. Decide where the family will meet if separated, where you will seek shelter, and what to take with you if you must evacuate. Also make plans for your pets.
• Assemble an emergency survival kit with food, water, medical, sanitation, and bedding supplies to last three to five days. Be sure to include a portable battery-powered or hand-crank radio, batteries, flashlights, and lanterns.
• Prepare for family members with special needs. You may lose electrical service and should make plans for anyone who is dependent on electrically powered life-support equipment. If you need to go to a hospital or emergency shelter, take necessary medical equipment and medications with you.
• Make plans to secure your property. Install straps or clips to securely fasten your home’s roof to the frame structure. Install permanent storm shutters to protect windows or purchase 5/8” plywood, cut to fit and ready to install.
• Be sure shrubs and trees around your home are well trimmed and not close to power lines.
• Become familiar with the emergency shelters in your area and their requirements. Certain facilities provide limited support to persons with special health needs, and some shelters are pet friendly. For the updated list of shelters go to www.scd.state.hi.us or call 733-4300.
  

When a hurricane is approaching

• Listen to Emergency Alert System weather statements and safety information on TV or radio. The National Weather Service will issue a hurricane watch when hurricane conditions of high wind and storm surge are expected within 48 hours. A hurricane warning will be issued when hurricane conditions are expected within 36 hours.
• Secure your home and loose objects in your yard and lanai.
• Ensure a supply of water for sanitary purposes; fill large containers with water.
• Because storms can cause power fluctuations or outages, unplug unnecessary and sensitive electric equipment. Protect electric appliances that remain plugged in by using high-quality surge suppressors. If the power goes out, do not plug in the equipment until power has been restored and remains on steadily.
• If you need to evacuate, follow official instruction issued on emergency radio stations.
• When evacuating shut off the power supply to your home at the main breaker or switch, usually located by the electric meter or in the circuit breaker panel.
  

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