Preparing for emergencies during a pandemic
by Michael Choe | July 29, 2020
Halfway through the year, 2020 has brought us many unpredictable challenges and prompted unavoidable changes. One thing that doesn’t change is hurricane season and the importance of emergency preparedness. The hurricane season for Hawaii starts on June 1 and runs through November 30. While the National Hurricane Center states mid-August to late October as being the peak of the season, they also warn us that disasters can occur at any point during the six-month season.
Fortunately for us, we were able to dodge Hurricane Douglas as it passed the islands. While we can’t prevent tropical cyclones from forming in the Pacific, we can certainly prepare for them and minimize the damage they might cause. This year, the storm season poses more challenges with the coronavirus pandemic looming, prompting changes to everything from the list of items needed in emergency kits to the extra space needed at emergency shelters.
When evacuating to a shelter, authorities may put you through a screening process such as temperature check and a questionnaire, similar to what you might find at the airport or at businesses. The Hawaii Emergency Management Agency also wants to inform customers that going to a shelter should be the last resort. With proper precautions, sheltering at home is the safest and most convenient option.
Experts also are asking everyone to include hand sanitizers and face coverings in their 14-day emergency preparedness packs.
Our partners on Oahu, Maui, and Hawaii Island are joining us in separate webinars to provide advice on emergency preparedness and other helpful information. Make sure to watch the videos for the most current info from local experts. The Maui edition will air on Hawaiian Electric’s YouTube channel on Aug. 4, and the Hawaii Island edition will air at the end of August. The video with Oahu partners was aired on July 10 and can be watched below:
For more information about emergency preparedness and how you can be ready for the disasters, download our free Handbook for Emergency Preparedness at www.hawaiianelectric.com/prepare.
Let’s continue to be vigilant as we get through the hurricane season — and the pandemic — together!
Michael Choe is a digital communications and social media specialist at Hawaiian Electric Company.
