2012 Disaster Preparedness Guide By Honolulu Star-Advertiser by Oahu Publications, Inc

W E D N E S D AY, J U N E 2 7, 2 0 1 2

A N A DV E R T I S I N G S U P P L E M E N T P U B L I S H E D B Y O A H U P U B L I C AT I O N S , I N C .

THE CALM BEFORE

Don’t wait until it is too late. The time to plan for a disaster is now, before the watches and warnings begin

By Joanne Romero

ricane Center. “By the time we start feeling effects from the hurricane, it’s going to be too late to start boarding things up and taking care of things. Stores are going to be sold out, and there is going to be flying debris.” The following stories can serve as your guide to building the best hurricane kit for your needs. We’ll cover everything you need to know from kit necessities to hurricane dos and don’ts. You can get started on a disaster kit today — one that can be used for any natural disaster, whether it is a hurricane, tsunami or earthquake.

THE STORM

s far as tropical storms are concerned, life in Hawaii has been relatively quiet over the past 19 years. We’ve been lucky enough to go hurricane-free during this time, but it doesn’t mean we can take hurricane season lightly. Ask anyone who was here for Hurricane Iniki in 1992, and they’ll tell you all about a hurricane’s devastatingly destructive nature. Considered the costliest hurricane to have ever hit Hawaii, Iniki caused approximately $1.8 billion in damage, along with six deaths. Less than 24 hours after the Central Pacific Hurricane Center issued a warning, Iniki struck. The short time frame meant many shelters, such as public school buildings, provided refuge only — no food or drink. If the last two tsunami scares taught us anything, it’s that many of us are simply not prepared. Stores were quickly flooded with people

making last-minute supply runs, and the lines at the gas stations never seemed longer. Our isolated islands mean that resources will be limited, and the chances are high that we’ll run out of supplies in a disaster. But the good news is that it’s not too late to prepare for this year’s hurricane season. “Prepare early,” says Robert Ballard, science and operations officer at the Central Pacific Hur-

GET STARTED The first step should be to make a list of everyone your kit could potentially cover. Knowing the people (and pets) who may depend on it for survival will give you a clearer picture of what and how much to gather. Remember to prepare for at least one week. “If disaster strikes, relief is not going to come quickly,” says Ballard, referring to Hawaii’s isolated location in the middle of the Pacific Ocean. see Page 11

HURRICANES: THE BASICS What Is A Hurricane? A hurricane is a type of tropical cyclone, the generic term for a lowpressure system that generally forms in the tropics. A typical cyclone is accompanied by thunderstorms with maximum sustained winds of 74 mph (64 knots) or higher. The hurricane

Disaster Preparedness Guide June 27, 2012 02

season lasts from June to November, with the peak season from mid-August to late October. Hurricanes can cause catastrophic damage to coastlines and several hundred miles inland. Winds can exceed 155 mph. Hurricanes and tropical storms can also spawn tornadoes and microbursts, create

storm surges along the coast, and cause extensive damage from heavy rainfall. How Are Hurricane Categories Determined? Hurricanes are classified into five categories based on their wind speed, central pressure and

damage potential (see chart on Page 11). Category 3 and higher hurricanes are considered major hurricanes, though Categories 1 and 2 are still extremely dangerous and warrant your full attention.

see Page 11

Natural Disasters

• Keep your car serviced and your tank filled • Secure lawn furniture and other loose objects • Cover windows and door openings with shutters or other shielding materials if high winds are expected • Follow instructions issued by local officials. Leave immediately if told to do so. • Store drinking water in clean containers in the bathtub • Blackouts often accompany natural disasters. Keep a copy of the Duracell Preparedness Checklist handy.

Preparedness Checklist

DURACELL® Coppertop and Ultra Power Batteries DURACELL® flashlights Canned & dry foods that require no preparation (such as Armour meats) Portable radio Bottled water First aid kit Candles and BIC lighters Manual can opener Essential medications Ziploc storage containers for food Weatherproof outerwear for all family members Pet supplies (food, leash, medication, ID) Rubbermaid Cooler and Blue Ice OFF! insect repellent Blankets and sleeping bags

✁

❏ ❏ ❏ ❏ ❏ ❏ ❏ ❏ ❏ ❏ ❏ ❏ ❏ ❏ ❏

Make A Storm Plan

• Keep the right devices and fresh Duracell Coppertop or Ultra Advanced batteries on hand. • Lanterns and Duracell flashlights are safe alternatives to candles. • Familiarize yourself with local evacuation routes. • Have an escape plan and meeting area all family members can remember. • Establish an out of state contact (reliable family member or friend) all members of your family can contact.

EMERGENCY NUMBERS

In an emergency, there's no time to flip through a phone book. Find the following phone numbers today and post them by the phone, just in case. Local Weather Service:

________________________

Insurance Company: Local American Red Cross Chapter:

________________________ ________________________

Emergency: 911 Designate an out-of-area contact person who can be called by all family members to relay information. Family contact:

________________________

Look for the items above at your favorite Hawaii retailer.

For additional emergency preparedness tips, visit www.duracell.com 03 Disaster Preparedness Guide June 27, 2012

SAFETY ALERT: HURRICANE PREPAREDNESS Be Prepared this Hurricane Season Hurricane season runs from June through November, but the best time to prepare for an emergency is before it happens. At Hawaiian Electric, we care about our customersâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; safety. To be prepared, remember to: t

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Disaster Preparedness Guide June 27, 2012 04

Download our free handbook for emergency preparedness at http://emergencypreparedness.heco.com.

THE

5 DOS AND 5 DON’TS

///////////////

OF HURRICANE PREPARATION

hen the sirens sound and the warnings blast that a hurricane is imminent, the best-case scenario would be for you to have read up on hurricane preparedness and to be prepared — disaster kit and all. But what do you when you’re not?

Dos

DO fill your tub(s) with water. If the water is shut off, you don’t have to give up using your toilet. Fill the back tank of your toilet and flush as needed. DO charge your phone. You should have some time between the warning and the power outage, if it occurs. DO sign up for emergency alerts. Your cell phone may be your only avenue for staying abreast of any updates regarding the storm. Sign up at nixle.com.

DO sign up for

emergency alerts at nixle.com, one way to stay abreast of any emergency updates.

DO protect electronics. Guard TVs and computers from water damage by covering them with plastic bags. Turn off

and unplug any unnecessary electrical equipment to keep them safe from power surges. DO pack your fridge and freezer. A tightly packed space stays better insulated than an empty one. Fill in the gaps with containers of water and turn the thermostat to the coldest setting.

Don’ts

DON’T drive unless it is an absolute emergency. With hurricanes come flying debris and flooded roads. This does not mean you should stay if you are in an evacuation zone. If local authorities direct you to evacuate, follow their instructions and proceed with caution.

DON’T be fooled when the eye of the storm passes. The center of the storm comes with a calm that may feel like the storm is over. This can last anywhere from a few minutes to an hour. Wait it out. DON’T watch the storm. Projectile items blowing around outside can penetrate windows and cause severe or even fatal injuries. Draw the curtains, close the blinds, and keep your phone and radio close.

DON’T open a window. It’s a common belief that a cracked window will relieve the pressure in a home, but it’s not true. In fact, windows can actually cause more damage when open than when left closed. An open window allows wind to enter the home. The wind must exit somewhere, which often results in a blown roof or ceiling. DON’T make phone calls unless it is an absolute emergency. If you need to contact someone, choose a text over a phone call when possible. Texting uses less power than a phone call and may go through more reliably when lines are busy.

DON’T watch the

storm. Draw the curtains as flying objects can penetrate windows and cause injury.

05 Disaster Preparedness Guide June 27, 2012

YOUR

EMERGENCY SUPPLY GROCERY LIST READY WITH THESE SUGGESTIONS By Joanne Romero

hen it comes to disaster preparedness, adequate food and water remain among the top concerns. But knowing what and how much to store can make all the difference. Thus, planning ahead is key. “With the last couple of near misses we had (such as the tsunami scares), the stores were cleared immediately,” says Jennifer Walter, manager of response and preparedness for the Hawaii Red Cross. “There are going to be shortages if people don’t take the time to prepare in advance.” What to Pack Non-perishable items are a no-brainer, but Walter takes it a step further, recommending stocking kits with items that you would normally eat anyway. This makes it easier to rotate the items so they don’t sit and expire. Think of what you would want to eat, and pack accordingly. This includes breakfast, lunch, dinner, dessert and snack items. Pay attention to nutrition and stock up on adequate protein, fruit, vegetables, grains and dairy (instant and shelf-stable milk cartons work well for this).

Try to keep it to foods that don’t need to be cooked. Fuel and power may not be available in the event of a disaster, so it’s best to be prepared.

Walter also says to keep track of all essential items, such as medicine, and to check up on the kit every six months, in case you need to add anything new. “Build it into your routine. If you check your fire alarms every six months, check the food supply kit as well,” Walter says. “It’s a good idea to do it all at once.” How Much Resources here must be boated or flown in, and a disaster may severely limit the amount of available food and water. Because of this, the Hawaii Red Cross recommends island residents keep a seven-day supply handy instead of the usually recommended

Disaster Preparedness Guide June 27, 2012 06

72-hour supply. The basic rule of thumb for water is one gallon per person, per day. And don’t forget to stock up for Fido as well. When it comes to size, individual-portioned items are best because they are easier to store than larger items. And take note: There is such thing as packing too much. Walter suggests packing only what is essential. Hurricane evacuation centers may have limited space, and they’ll need all the room they can get to fit people inside. That said, you still don’t want to show up empty-handed. Stick to the basics and the seven-day rule, and you should be fine.

WHEN FOOD TURNS

DANGEROUS Taken from HECO’s “Information Handbook for Emergency Preparedness,” which adapted material from “Food Safety During and After a Power Outage,” from the state of Hawaii Department of Health.

Q. Is food in the fridge safe during a power outage?

A. Yes, as long as the power is off for no more than four hours. When in doubt, though, throw the items out! Bacteria that causes food poisoning cannot be detected by sight, smell or taste. Try not to open the refrigerator door, but to keep the contents as cool as possible. Each time you open the door, you are letting warm air in and cool air out. Throw out anything that may have been contaminated by the juice from dripping raw meat. Some food will have to be discarded if the outage lasts for more than two hours. This pertains especially to perishable food items such as the following protein-rich products: meat, poultry, fish and eggs.

Q. What can probably be kept unrefrigerated, in a cool place, for a few days?

A. • Fresh, uncut fruits and vegetables. Check them to make sure they remain firm. Toss them if they become slimy. Other items include dried fruit, fruit juices, and opened jars of jam, jelly, ketchup, mustard, pickles, relish and barbecue sauce. Q. How long will frozen foods stay frozen in the freezer?

A. It depends. If your freezer is jampacked with food, they might stay frozen for one to three days. If you have a half-full freezer, maybe one day. The more food you have in your freezer, the better. Another factor is having a well-insulated freezer, which will keep the food frozen longer. Q. What if a frozenfood item has thawed out completely, but still feels cold?

A. Refreezing food that has thawed can be done in some cases, but the food quality will decline. You should cook and consume the food item as soon as possible. If you cannot detect any ice crystals, do not refreeze vegetables and seafood. Do not refreeze ice cream and frozen dinners. Q. What if the food smells but looks safe to eat? A. Do not try to test it further by tasting it. Food spoiled by food-poi-

soning bacteria cannot be detected by sight, smell, touch or taste. It is far better to play it safe and discard questionable food items, than to run the risk of food poisoning.

EMERGENCY

WATER SAFETYIN AN

During natural disasters, it’s important to be mindful of water conservation. If you live in a high-rise, the building pumps might be out of order. Use water for the most urgent needs, such as drinking and sanitation.

STEPS TO TAKE BEFORE THE H20 RUNS DRY As all Hawaii residents know, even minor storms can cause a power outage. But during a major storm or following a disaster, the power could be out for longer periods of time — turning a temporary inconvenience into a survival situation. Without power, there is no water. Storing water ahead of time can help you avoid a water shortage during an outage. According to HECO, you should have at least a five days’ supply of water available for drinking, cooking and cleaning. Set aside one gallon per person per day, at the minimum. Don’t forget to store water for your pets, too. To store water, HECO suggests purchasing bottled water. Or, you could fill clean, non-corrosive, non-breakable containers with tap water. Before storage, tightly cover the container.

Containers should be refilled or replaced every six to 12 months to ensure that the water remains potable. If for whatever reason you are not sure if the water is safe to drink or to use for cooking, HECO recommends a variety of techniques with which to purify the water. One option is to boil the water for five to 10 minutes. Another option is to mix it with water purification tablets. Finally, you could add chlorine bleach to the water. Each gallon of water requires eight drops of bleach, or until the liquid is clear and smells slightly like chlorine. But do not add more than 16 drops. For more information on safe water storage, refer to HECO’s “Information Handbook for Emergency Preparedness.” The handbook can be downloaded at heco.com.

Q. CAN I BATHE IN STREAMS OR THE OCEAN IF I DON’T HAVE ANY WATER? A. The state Department of Health recommends not bathing in streams because the water might be contaminated and you could catch diseases. As for the ocean, use common sense. If the ocean water looks clean, go ahead. If there has been a catastrophe and there is major pollution in the ocean, it would be wiser to stay out of the water. Q. CAN I FLUSH MY TOILET? A. Try to minimize flushing your toilet. With power systems down, it is likely that the municipal sewer system lacks its power source. This means the wastewater treatment plant might not be able to function properly, and sewage is just going to sit without being chemically sanitized. Adapted from HECO’s “Information Handbook for Emergency Preparedness”

Simpson Strong-Tie® introduces a new solution for rafter-to-wall retrofits in Hawaii: the HPT hurricane tie. The HPT is designed and tested for single-wall homes and meets Hawaii state requirements for uplift resistance. The unique design of the HPT connects the wall to the rafter, avoiding interference from the blocking. The strengthened transition area of the HPT helps the structure resist high-wind forces and related damage by transferring the forces from the roof to the wall. The HPT installs easily with our new SD screws and requires an additional ¼" x 1 ½" SDS screw at the trim board. It’s available with a galvanized coating (HPTZ) or in stainless steel (HPTSS) for maximum corrosion resistance. For more information, visit www.strongtie.com/hpt or call (800) 999-5099. To speak with a Simpson Strong-Tie representative in Hawaii, dial (808) 479-1216.

07 Disaster Preparedness Guide June 27, 2012

PREPARING FOR

DISASTER According to data compiled by the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA), the number of reported natural disasters throughout the country has been steadily increasing since the 1950s. Here in the Islands, tsunamis and hurricanes are among the major threats that we face in terms of natural disasters — and these threats may be bigger than we realize. According to a 2002 report by the U.S. Geological Survey, twenty-six tsunamis impacted the Islands between 1819 and 1975, meaning that one occurred about every six years. And just since 1950, five hurricanes or tropical storms have significantly impacted the Islands. Despite the historical frequency of these events, the state Department of Emergency Management found that a majority of Hawaii residents are underprepared for the possibility of a disaster. “It showed that about 30 percent of the people that we surveyed had some type of disaster supplies and were aware of what they needed to do,” says Department of Emergency Management public information officer John Cummings. “The other 70 percent were expecting the government — the county and the federal — to come to their assistance. And while that is true, it's going to take time for that to happen after a major disaster…Our residents really need to understand that they have to be responsible for their own needs in taking care of their family until that disaster relief effort can reach them. “Even a little preparation is going to make a big difference the next time that a disaster comes,” Cummings says. “And it will come in some form.” One important — and simple — component in preparing for a disaster is to create a survival kit filled with essential materials. The ideal kit is suitable for a number of disaster situations. In some cases, you may have to evacuate to a nearby shelter. In others, sheltering in place could be the safest option. The Department of Emergency Management recommends that people be prepared to take care of themselves and their families for 5 to 7 days after a

Disaster Preparedness Guide June 27, 2012 08

disaster. “That may be how long it would take before disaster relief can really reach everyone who is affected on the island,” says Cummings. “The idea is having these supplies on hand and knowing where they are so you are not waiting until the sirens sound…to buy your supplies,” Cummings says. For any type of situation, here are some suggested items that that you should include in your survival kit:

WATER The Department of Emergency Management recommends that you pack enough water to last for 5 to 7 days. It also suggests a minimum of one gallon of water per person per day.

NON-PERISHABLE FOOD The Department of Emergency Management recommends that you pack 5 to 7 days worth of nonperishable food. Canned foods are a good option due to their long shelf lives. “You want to have food that you don't have to cook to consume, first off. You want things that are easy to prepare,” Cummings explains, adding that each person should have about 1,500 calories per day. “And then, (the foods) have to be culturally acceptable for what you are used to.” One option is Armour Star meat products, which includes a variety of canned food items such as Vienna Sausage and Treet luncheon meat.

PORTABLE BATTERY OPERATED OR HAND-CRANK RADIO A radio, along with spare batteries and a flashlight, is a high priority item that Cummings says you should have on hand at all times — at home, at work and in your car.

“If we have a disaster, like a hurricane, that knocks out our electrical generation on the island, TV is not going to work and cell phones are not going to work,” Cummings explains. “The only way you are going to get information from the Department of Emergency Management or from Civil Defense is via the radio. That is our primary means of talking to our residents any time we have an emergency.”

FLASHLIGHTS If a disaster occurs at night, a Duracell flashlight can help you to navigate your way in the dark.

BATTERIES A flashlight and a radio are among the essential items, but they won't work without batteries to keep them going! Be sure to pack extra Duracell CopperTop and Ultra Power batteries.

STORAGE CONTAINERS FOR FOOD While canned food is ideal in a disaster situation, it does make storage for leftovers a little difficult. Consider including Ziploc bags and containers to store any leftover food in order to preserve limited supplies.

CAN OPENER A non-electric can opener is preferable.

FIRST AID KIT A typical first aid kit is comprised of bandages, sterile gauze pads, aspirin, antiseptic wipe packets, antibiotic ointment packets, absorbent compress dressings and more. The Department of EmergencyManagement also recommends that you consider taking a first aid course.

SPECIAL MEDICATION AND EQUIPMENT If you or any of your family members take special medication, you should consider enclosing several days worth in your survival kit. For individuals who use assistive devices, such as electric wheelchairs or scooters, it is a good idea to include extra batteries for these. You also may want to include an extra pair of prescription glasses.

SANITATION EQUIPMENT FEMA recommends moist towelettes, garbage bags and plastic ties for sanitation purposes. And for families with babies, don't forget a supply of diapers.

EXTRA CASH If you need to purchase anything following a disaster, cash is going to be the most reliable way to do so. “Look at the normal amount of cash that you would spend in about 3 to 4 days, and keep that on the side,” Cummings says. “If we lose our electricity, you can't get to the ATM. And a lot of stores … if they can't process it, they are not going to take a check. So cash is going to be the most important thing a few days after a disaster that you can use to buy additional things that you might need.”

PERSONAL DOCUMENTS It is a good idea to keep important documents readily available — and stored in a waterproof container. FEMA recommends that you include insurance policies, personal identification and bank account records. You also should compile a list of emergency contact information.

INFLATABLE MATTRESS OR FOLDING COT Evacuation shelters provide a safe place for residents to gather but do not always have individual sleeping equipment. You might also want to pack a sleeping bag or blankets.

ITEMS FOR KEIKI Consider including books, games, puzzles or other activities to help keep kids occupied and entertained.

CHANGE OF CLOTHES If you have to evacuate quickly, you may leave the house with only the clothes you are wearing. Put some extra clothes in your survival kit. You may also want to include weatherproof outerwear for all family members.

INSECT REPELLENT OFF! insect repellent will help keep you more comfortable if your evacuation situation includes any time outdoors.

PET SUPPLIES If you have pets, don't forget to pack a few basic supplies for your furry family members, including pet food, a leash, any necessary medication and identification.

CANDLES AND LIGHTERS Keeping candles and BIC lighters on hand can help ensure that you will be able to find your way around in the case of a power outage. BIC Utility Lighters are great for lighting charcoal or gas grills and candles. An innovative new product from BIC– the FlameDisk– is a portable heat source. Fits in most charcoal grills for emergency cooking situations.

COOLER AND BLUE ICE Once you have collected all of these supplies, you will need a place to store everything. Rubbermaid has a collection of wheeled coolers that will allow for proper storage while also providing easy transportation during an evacuation situation. Rolling duffle bags are also a secure, convenient option. For more information on disaster preparedness kits and planning information, visit www.redcross.org or scd.hawaii.gov/dp_kit.html.

“IT WAS THE SCARIEST NIGHT OF MY LIFE.” “On Monday, March 5, 2012 my home was struck by lightning! What seemed like a typical stormy night, turned into a raging nightmare. As my family and I got ready for bed we were watching the storm light up the islands, when suddenly there was a big flash of light followed by the sound of a loud explosion as my entire house shook. It was like a bomb landed on my roof! My fire alarm was blaring as well as the rest of the neighborhood cars and house alarms. I leaped out of bed. My heart was racing and our house was pitch black. We gathered our children, scrambled for flashlights and raced out of our home. It was one of those times where seconds seemed like hours. Never in a million years would I have thought that my home would be struck by lightning. Thank goodness our emergency readiness kit was full of key essentials like canned food, bottled water and Duracell flashlights and batteries to keep us out of the dark! Emergencies happen when you least expect them! Be prepared. Thanks Duracell for reminding us every year!” - Sweetie Pacarro

09 Disaster Preparedness Guide June 27, 2012

PREPARING FOR

Disaster Preparedness Guide June 27, 2012 08

WATER The Department of Emergency Management recommends that you pack enough water to last for 5 to 7 days. It also suggests a minimum of one gallon of water per person per day.

FLASHLIGHTS If a disaster occurs at night, a Duracell flashlight can help you to navigate your way in the dark.

BATTERIES A flashlight and a radio are among the essential items, but they won't work without batteries to keep them going! Be sure to pack extra Duracell CopperTop and Ultra Power batteries.

CAN OPENER A non-electric can opener is preferable.

SANITATION EQUIPMENT FEMA recommends moist towelettes, garbage bags and plastic ties for sanitation purposes. And for families with babies, don't forget a supply of diapers.

ITEMS FOR KEIKI Consider including books, games, puzzles or other activities to help keep kids occupied and entertained.

INSECT REPELLENT OFF! insect repellent will help keep you more comfortable if your evacuation situation includes any time outdoors.

PET SUPPLIES If you have pets, don't forget to pack a few basic supplies for your furry family members, including pet food, a leash, any necessary medication and identification.

09 Disaster Preparedness Guide June 27, 2012

HOW TO BE PET-PREPARED IN A NATURAL DISASTER BY KYLE GALDEIRA

hen staring at impending disaster, families may be faced with the nerve-racking task of evacuating their homes. While packing disaster kits and vital supplies ahead of time can make the process run smoothly, there are bound to be oversights amid the chaos. Even though pets are often considered part of the family by their owners, domesticated animals are sometimes lost in the hustle and bustle. However, as the Federal Emergency Management Agency suggests, it is not a good idea to leave pets at home when faced with an evacuation because odds are they will not survive. And, in the rare case that the animals do survive, they often run away and are never found again. FEMA has some tips for pet owners to consider when planning for the worst-case scenario. Proper Planning When putting together a disaster preparedness kit and action plan, pets should be included in the process. Determine where the closest shelter is, and find out if that shelter accepts pets—some do not because of health and safety concerns. Call any local animal shelters or the Hawaii Humane Society to determine if they will be able to accommodate one’s pet during a disaster. Keep in mind that most boarding facilities and kennels will need medical records and other important paperwork prior to accepting pets, so make sure to include those in

Disaster Preparedness Guide June 27, 2012 10

emergency preparedness kits. In the event that a pet owner must leave one’s companion behind, the pet should be left in the house with plenty of food and water. Leaving the toilet seat cover up will allow the animal to use that water source, if necessary. Pets should not be tied up, as they will be unable to seek other means of sustenance if the owner does not return in time. Owners should post a notice outside the home to notify any potential search and rescue crews as to what animals are in the house, along with a contact number. When Disaster Strikes At the onset of a disaster, pets should be immediately brought indoors. This will protect them from any flying debris or other harmful elements, and will stop them from running away when sensing drastic changes in the weather. Have newspapers on hand for sanitary purposes, and feed pets canned or moist food so they won’t need to drink as much additional water. Different animals should be separated during a disaster because, even though dogs and cats usually get along, they may act irrationally during the stressful situation. Keep smaller pets away from larger ones to prevent any skirmishes. The Aftermath In the dreaded scenario faced by families forced to relocate following a disaster, pets should not be left behind as the chances of survival are slim to none. In the first couple of days following the disaster, keep pets on

leashes or close to their owners as the animals may still act irrationally until they are assured that danger has passed. Familiar scents and landmarks may have disappeared or changed, so pets need to settle in to the new surroundings. For more information on disaster preparedness for pets, contact your local animal shelter or log on to www.FEMA.gov.

(NOAA) radio and get plenty of batteries. Remember to also account for leisure time. Waiting for the power to come back on or for other reparations takes time. A deck of cards or a board game can help keep you and your family occupied. The Hawaii State Civil Defense recommends building two hurricane kits: One for the home that contains provisions and activities, and one equipped with bare necessities you can transport in case of an evacuation. Although we cannot say for sure when the next hurricane will strike, we can take steps to be prepared for when it does. SOME IMPORTANT NUMBERS TO KNOW Emergency Police, Fire, Ambulance . . . . . . 911 from Page 2

“It’s going to take time, and people have to be ready for that.” Talk to your family and work out a plan in case of a hurricane or other natural disaster. Remember that everyone will not necessarily be at home when disaster strikes. Make plans for what to do when family members are at school, work or other settings. Sometimes calling someone

SAFFIR-SIMPSON HURRICANE

who is out of town is easier than calling someone locally. Pick a contact and share it with the rest of your family.

State Civil Defense . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 733-4300

GO SHOPPING Keep your seven days’ worth of food and water in the kit along with other necessities, such as medicine and extra clothing. Invest in a National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration

Hawaii (Big Island) Civil Defense . . 935-0031

from Page 2

Scale Scale Number (Category)

Sustained Winds (mph)

Damage

74-95

Minimal: Unanchored mobile homes, vegetation and signs.

96-110

Moderate: All mobile homes, roofs, small crafts, flooding.

Department of Emergency Management (Oahu). . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 723-8960

Maui Civil Defense . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 270-7285 Kauai Civil Defense . . . . . . . . . . . . . 241-1800 American Red Cross . . . . . . . . . . . . 734-2101

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111-129

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130-156

Extreme: Roofs destroyed, trees down, roads cut off, mobile homes destroyed. Beach homes flooded.

More than 157

Catastrophic: Most buildings destroyed. Vegetation destroyed. Major roads cut off. Homes flooded.

Source: Information gathered from the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) website.

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11 Disaster Preparedness Guide June 27, 2012

DRIVING

RAIN

IN THE

SAFETY TIPS FOR NAVIGATING YOUR CAR IN FLOOD CONDITIONS The best piece of advice is not to drive in flood conditions at all. But ...

while trying to fix or extricate themselves from their stalled automobile.

1. Let’s say you are already out,

3. BY THE NUMBERS:

driving, and there’s a flash flood. What to do? If you can see water washing over the roadway, turn around. If you drive farther, you might discover that the road has been washed away or that the water is getting deeper.

• Six inches of water is enough water to reach the bottom of passenger vehicles. This means the vehicle may stall or your tires will lose traction and you will lose control of your vehicle.

2. If your vehicle stalls, abandon it as soon as possible. Your life is more important than your car or van. People have been swept away

• Twelve inches of water, or one foot of water, is enough to set afloat many vehicles.

• Two feet of gushing, rushing water has enough power to carry away sports utility vehicles and pickups. At night you need to be extra careful because any flood dan-

gers are difficult to recognize in the darkness. Adapted from HECO’s “Information Handbook for Emergency Preparedness”

Knowing When

CALAMITYSTRIKES Hawaii is particularly vulnerable to hurricanes, tsunamis and floods. To help you prepare, the phone book offers information on when there is an increased likelihood that these storms could occur. While it’s best to be prepared for any storm at any time, knowing when storms have a high probability of striking can help you be ready. Hurricane season occurs from June

through November. Tsunamis can occur at any point during the year, as they are caused by disturbances in the ocean, such as earthquakes. Floods are caused by heavy rains, so they can occur at any time throughout the year. Typically, however, heavy rains take place between October and March. Storm surges, which are increased wind speeds and subsequent strong ocean swells, also can cause flooding.

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RUBBERMAID Cooler, Blue Ice ECKO Manual Can Opener Assorted Canned Goods (ARMOUR, DELMONTE, CORAL, CAMPBELLS) Other Dry Foods (Snacks, Beef Jerky)

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Disaster Preparedness Guide June 27, 2012 12

THE PACIFIC’S CENTER OF HURRICANE ATTENTION By Joanne Romero

With hurricane season here, you can rest assured that should any dangerous weather come our way, someone will let us know. But just who is that someone? Meet the Central Pacific Hurricane Center. WHO THEY ARE AND WHAT THEY DO The government-funded team of top meteorologists at the Central Pacific Hurricane Center tracks all of the disturbances and areas in the central Pacific region, from the area at 140 degrees west longitude to the International Date Line. When they come across disturbances of concern, they are the ones who issue the watches, warnings, advisories, discussions and statements we may hear on the radio or see on TV. On the lookout for anything they would expect to become a tropical cyclone, which is a rotating tropical system that includes a tropical depression, tropical storm or a hurricane, the meteorologists monitor satellite imagery 24/7. “There is a reason for that and a reason why we think that’s important,” says the center’s science and operations officer, Robert Ballard. “Even though the Hawaiian Islands haven’t been impacted by a hurricane in 20 years, hurricanes are still a threat to Hawaii. We are monitoring, and we think people should be prepared.” RECOMMENDATIONS Ballard suggests that people visit weather.gov/cphc to keep up to date with the latest hurricane information. They also have a handy glossary that, among other things, explains the differences between a hurricane watch and warning (a watch is issued 48 hours in advance of an onset of tropical-storm-force winds, while a warning is issued 36 hours in advance). The organization also updates the web-

site with an “outlook” every six hours and updates that as needed to track areas of concern. Ballard also advises getting an NOAA (National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration) weather radio. “Typically the information about hurricanes, tsunamis and flash floods will go out faster on NOAA radio than anywhere else,” he says. “It’s immediate, so it’s faster than relying on the sirens.” Further, with hurricanes often come loss of electricity and the Internet. Generators back up the broadcasts on NOAA radios, so people can rely on them. However, the purchase of a NOAA radio should not be the only method of preparation. While Ballard strongly suggests keeping track of what’s going on, he also notes that one of the most important things to do is to prepare a kit and your home in advance. “By the time we are able to tell you that your island is going to get a direct hit, it’s going to be too late to prepare,” Ballard says. “People want to wait until they are sure something is coming, but if you wait until you’re sure, you’re going to be in trouble.”

The Central Pacific Hurricane Center is on the lookout to keep everyone safe. While a main focus is often the people in and around Hawaii, the center also is responsible for people flying or boating around the Pacific. WORKING TOGETHER Located in Hawaii, the Central Pacific Hurricane Center does not work entirely alone. It also works with the National Weather Service Forecast Office, which operates in the same office in Honolulu, at the University of Hawaii at Manoa. The office also serves as a backup for the national office in the East Pacific. Other offices on American Samoa receive guidance from the Central Pacific Hurricane Center on when tropical cyclones are in their area. The office also does backup for the weather forecast office on Guam as well as American Samoa. They coordinate with many of the centers on the Mainland, which handle the North and East Pacific regions. The Pacific Tsunami Center, located in Ewa Beach, is “like our sister company,” Ballard says.

To learn more about the Central Pacific Hurricane Center, and to sign up for email updates through its tropical cyclone advisory mailing list, visit weather.gov/cphc.

13 Disaster Preparedness Guide June 27, 2012

THE

SAFE WAY

////////////////////////////////// Before the next floods descend, familiarize yourself with the Flood Zone Map (see next page) and advice on what to do if you’re at home or must evacuate (below): 1. Keep a battery-, or hand-crank, or solar-powered radio tuned to a local station, and follow emergency instructions. 2. The safety of your family is the most important consideration. Since flood waters can rise very rapidly, you should be prepared to evacuate before the waters reach your property. 3. If you have a flood-related emergency and need assistance, call 911. 4. If you’re caught in the house by suddenly ris-

TO DEAL WITH FLOODS ing waters, move to the second floor and, if necessary, to the roof. Take warm clothing, a flashlight and a portable radio with you, and wait for help. Don’t try to swim to safety. Rescue teams will be looking for you. 5. If, and only if, time permits, there are a number of precautionary steps that can be taken: • Turn off all utilities at the main power switch and close the main gas valve. Disconnect electrical appliances. Do not touch electrical equipment if you are wet or standing in water. • Board up windows or protect them with storm shutters (to prevent flying glass). • Bring outdoor possessions inside the house or tie them down securely. This includes

lawn furniture, garbage cans, tools, signs and other moveable objects that might be swept away or hurled about. • Secure your home. 6. Finally, if you must evacuate your home, the rule is simple: Head for higher ground and stay away from flood waters. If you’re evacuating by car, make sure you stock your car with an evacuation kit; avoid parking along streams or ditches, because both areas can turn deadly during times of heavy rainfall; and keep your gas tank at least half full, since gasoline pumps will not be working if the electricity has been cut off. Source: HECO’s “Information Handbook for Emergency Preparedness.” Visit www.heco.com for more information.

HURRICANE/TROPICAL STORM

CHECKLIST

The key to successfully weathering a hurricane or tropical storm is being prepared. Here is what you should do: • Know the warning signals and where shelters are located. See list of public emergency shelters at http://www.scd.hawaii.gov/. • Always have a home survival kit ready. • Tie down or store all loose objects. • Bring all potted plants into the house. • Remove and store lanai furniture. • Throw deck furniture into the pool. • Unplug electric appliances you may not need or use. • Cover all windows and door openings with boards, shutters or other shielding materials. Permanent storm shutters offer the best protection for windows. A second option is to board up windows with 5/8-inch marine plywood, cut to

Disaster Preparedness Guide June 27, 2012 14

fit and ready to install. Other alternatives include replacing existing glass with impact-resistant glass, and covering existing glass with a protective film. Tape does not prevent windows from breaking. • Wedge sliding glass doors at the top. Wedge a dowel or a piece of broom handle into the track of sliding glass doors to prevent them from coming loose when the wind blows. • Properly secure propane tanks. Remember that propane tanks should never be stored indoors. Fuel containers, including propane tanks, should never be stored near appliances, gas water heaters, and source of fire. Make sure storage areas are cool, dry and well-ventilated to allow

any gas leaks to safely dissipate. • Assemble insurance documents and place in waterproof containers. • Secure elevators on the top floor of your condominium. • Fill up the gas tank of your car. • Care for pets. (See page 10) Source: HECO’s “Information Handbook for Emergency Preparedness.” Visit www.heco.com for more information.

FLOOD ZONE MAP

GREAT ONLINE RESOURCES TO GET YOU PREPARED • American Red Cross, Hawaii State chapter. Lots and lots of great information about survival kits, planning for an emergency, and how to register for Red Cross classes and training on disaster-related topics. You might even become a Red Cross instructor! www.hawaiiredcross.org

- Maui County Civil Defense. www.co.maui.hi.us/departments/CivilDefense/ - City and County of Honolulu Department of Emergency Management. www.oahuDEM.org - State Civil Defense. www.scd.hawaii.gov

• American Veterinary Medical Association Disaster Preparedness. www.avma.org/disaster/default.asp

• Emergency Preparedness. www.heco.com

• Civil Defense/Emergency Management: - Hawaii County Civil Defense. www.hawaiicounty.com/directory/dir_defense.htm - Kauai County Civil Defense. www.kauai.gov

• Emergency Preparedness Resources for Maui County Residents. www.mauiready.org • Federal Emergency Management Agency. www.fema.gov

• National Flood Insurance Program. www.floodsmart.gov • National Weather Service, Honolulu Forecast Office. www.weather.gov/hawaii • Pacific Disaster Center. www.pdc.org • Ready America. www.ready.gov • www.staradvertiser.com From HECO’s “Handbook for Emergency Preparedness”

15 Disaster Preparedness Guide June 27, 2012

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Disaster Preparedness Guide June 27, 2012 16