Before The Disaster

Before the disaster

Hold a Family Meeting

Talk about what each family member should do in preparation for and in response to each emergency identified. Individuals should also consider preparation and response to each emergency identified.
Determine primary and alternate locations where family members can meet if an emergency happens while away from home/work.
Select a pre-designated place to meet outside if a sudden emergency such as a fire forces you out of the house.
Identify the safe areas in the home.
Select someone outside your immediate area, (another state) to act as a central point of contact for your relatives and friends who may try to call following an emergency or disaster, as you may have limited or no telephone service.
Plan for child care if parents can't get home.
If you have pets, ensure you are familiar with "Pet Friendly" shelters for Oahu. Remember pets CAN NOT go to non-designated shelters, unless they are registered service animals. Pets must have a collar, leash, cage or hard sided crate with food. The crate must be labeled with the owners contact information

Assemble an Emergency Kit (DO NOT wait for an impending storm)

Prepare Prescriptions and a First Aid Kit.
Determine special family needs (medication, equipment etc.)
Include a list of family members' prescribed medications, giving generic names and prescribed dosage.
Include a list of doctors and telephone numbers.
Include a list of special medical devices such as pacemaker/insulin pump, the style, serial number, and other pertinent information.
Include vital family records such as mortgage papers, medical records, insurance policies, birth certificates, marriage licenses, Will, tax records, and other irreplaceable items.
Prepare a 1-2 week supply of special medicines or foods required.
Prepare a 7-day supply of non-perishable food and water. (Hawaii is a remote location, personnel should be prepared to survive a minimum of 7 days before outside help arrives.)
Ensure i gallon of water per person per day for 7 days.
Have at least $250 in cash in your disaster kit. Following a hurricane, banks and ATMs may be temporarily closed.
Remember a non-electric can opener.
Select a battery or a solar/hand powered radio with the weather channel and extra batteries.
Select a flashlight and extra batteries.
Collect sleeping bags or blankets.
Prepare a change of clothing for each family member.
Prepare adequate toilet articles and waterless hygiene products.