In the event a hurricane evacuation is issued for the Big Island, there are a few steps residents can take to help lessen the blow of the natural disaster.
In the event a hurricane evacuation is issued for the Big Island, there are a few steps residents can take to help lessen the blow of the natural disaster.
Barney Sheffield, Hawaii disaster coordinator for the American Red Cross, said the first step to prepare for such an event is to have a disaster plan in place and a disaster kit prepared before Mother Nature strikes. Sheffield also recommends making sure your home is secure.
“Look for big things around your house and make sure to secure any chairs, tables on the porch, swinging flowers, anything that could become projectile and do damage,” he said.
Another necessity when preparing for a storm is to make sure there are no trees or shrubs around your house that could cause damage, he said. That was an issue during Tropical Storm Iselle last year, when albizia trees caused significant damage in the Puna District.
Also, Sheffield recommends you have your prescriptions on hand, along with a list of your doctors and have a plan with your care provider.
If an evacuation is eminent, it would be wise to arrange transportation and talk to your care provider, friends and family about where you’ll take shelter. Make an alternative plan in case caregivers cannot get to you.
For a baby, make sure you have extra supplies of formula, bottles, powdered milk, diapers, baby wipes, diaper rash ointment, plus a thermometer and fever reducer. Consider keeping a spare diaper bag in an easily accessible location.
For seniors and people with disabilities, stock necessary prescription medications and keep a paper listing of your prescriptions, dosages and any allergies. Have extra batteries for any medical devices and keep an additional supply of consumables such as oxygen. Consider making a copy of your health care directives for your kit.
If you have medication that requires refrigeration, keep cooler bags and ice packs on hand.
It’s recommended you label wheelchairs, canes, walkers or other equipment.
Also, if you have pets make sure to keep an eye out for pet shelters to secure your furry loved ones.
Having enough time to prepare is possibly the only silver lining of hurricane clouds.
“You can see it coming and people can prepare in advance, not like an earthquake,” Sheffield said.
In the event a hurricane is on its way, Sheffield said make sure to stay informed and watch the local weather and news channels.
If an evacuation is ordered, Hawaii County Civil Defense will notify residents and set up hurricane evacuation shelters that will provide increased protection from high winds to the public. Those shelters will be operated by the American Red Cross, and are often at local schools.
Email Megan Moseley at mmoseley@westhawaiitoday.com.