Residents reminded to be hurricane ready

As the nation prepares for hurricanes Gustav and Hanna to make landfall in the Gulf Coast states in the coming days, Gov. Linda Lingle said in a news release yesterday that this situation should serve as a reminder for Hawai‘i residents to be prepared at home.

“As our fellow Americans prepare for hurricanes Gustav and Hanna in the Gulf Coast, we are reminded of the real threat that hurricanes pose to Hawai‘i,” Lingle said. “Now is the time for all of us in Hawai‘i to prepare for a potential hurricane. The most important actions every family can take now include developing a family disaster plan, learning where your nearest shelters are located, preparing an emergency supply kit with provisions for at least seven days and staying aware of current weather conditions.

“Hurricane preparedness is a responsibility we all share,” she said. “By being prepared, you will ensure your family is safe when a hurricane hits Hawai‘i.”

An emergency supply kit should include food, water, medicine, clothing, blankets, batteries, flashlights, radio and other necessities plus supplies for any pets.

Lingle and Lt. Gov. James “Duke” Aiona Jr., who are in St. Paul, Minn., for the Republican National Convention, are closely monitoring the paths of the Gulf Coast hurricanes.

The governor has been in close contact with Hawai‘i Adjutant General Robert Lee, director of state Civil Defense, on any potential relief effort role Hawai’i might provide should the need arise.

“Our prayers are for the safety of our fellow Americans in the Gulf Coast states as they prepare for hurricanes Gustav and Hanna, and our condolences go out to those who have lost family and friends, as well as their homes in island nations in the Caribbean from the devastation of Gustav,” Lingle said.

Hurricane season runs through November. More information about hurricane and emergency preparedness is available at hawaii.gov/gov/news/emergency-info and at www.scd.state.hi.us.