Hawaii 24/7 Staff

UPDATED: 10 p.m. Thursday, Oct. 16

HAWAII RED CROSS VOLUNTEERS OPENING SHELTERS ON BIG ISLAND

In partnership with the Hawaii County Civil Defense, the Hawaii Red Cross volunteers will be opening shelters on the Big Island in response to Tropical Storm Ana. Evacuation Shelters will open on Friday, October 17, 2014 at noon the following sites (please listen to the radio or local media for changes to opening times and further updates):

Laupahoehoe School – 35-2065 Old Mamalahoa Hwy, Laupahoehoe
Kohala High & Elementary – 54-3611 Akoni Pule Hwy Kapaau
Kealakehe High – 74-5000 Puohulihuli St, Kailua-Kona
Konawaena High – 81-1043 Konawaena School Rd, Kealakekua
Hilo High – 556 Waianuenue Ave, Hilo
Waiakea High – 155 W Kawili St, Hilo
Keaau High – 16-725 Keaau-Pahoa Rd, Keaau
Pahoa High & Intermediate– 15-3038 Pahoa Village Road, Pahoa
Honokaa High & Intermediate – 45-527 Pakalana St, Honokaa
Kau High & Pahala Elementary – 96-3150 Pikake Stl, Pahala
Waikoloa Elementary – 68-1730 Ho’oko St, Waikoloa Village

Due to Hawaii’s isolation and vulnerability, the Red Cross recommends that people prepare their emergency kits for seven days and bring their emergency supplies with them to shelters. Airports and ports may be damaged by the storm and slow down the resupply process for local stores.

The Red Cross encourages everyone to be prepared before disasters strike: Get a disaster kit, make a plan and be informed.

Download free Red Cross mobile apps. Have safety and first aid information at your fingertips. The hurricane app features weather alerts, information on open Red Cross shelters, a toolkit with a flashlight, strobe light and alarm, and a one-touch “I’m Safe” button that lets you use social media outlets to let family and friends know you are okay. The apps can be downloaded by visiting redcross.org/apps.

Get a disaster kit. Every family should have their own disaster kit. As other emergency response organizations have reported, families are asked to bring their own disaster supplies kit to a shelter, if asked to evacuate. Have 7 days’ worth of supplies at home to shelter in place or in a compact portable container to take to a shelter. Full details about what the kit should contain are available at www.redcross.org/hawaii (see Programs and Services/Disaster Preparedness).

Water – 1 gallon per person per day
Food – non-perishable
Flashlight
Radio -NOAA Weather Radio
Extra batteries
First aid kit
Medications & Medical items
Manual Can opener
Multi-purpose tool
Personal hygiene items
Copies of Documents (prescriptions, proof of address, deed/lease to home, insurance policies and proof of identity
Cell phone with chargers
Family Contact Information
Cash
Bedding
Change of clothes
Towels
Dishes

You may also need:
Baby supplies – bottles, baby food & diapers
Games and activities
Comfort items
Pet supplies – collar, leash, ID, food, water, carrier, bowl & medications

Make a plan. All members of the household should work together on the family disaster plan. A Family Disaster Plan Template is available on redcross.org that people can download and complete to make or update their plan. Planning together is important so everyone in the household knows what they should do if something occurs. The plan should include ways to contact and find one another in an emergency, including two places to meet – one near the home in case of a sudden emergency like a fire – and one outside the neighborhood in case circumstances prevent people from returning home. Choose an out-of-area emergency contact person. It may be easier to text or call long distance if local phone lines are overloaded or out of service.

Stay informed. Listen to local media to keep updated on the status of Ana. Hurricane shelter locations and opening times will be shared by local media. Do not automatically go there.

How You Can Help
All Red Cross disaster assistance is free, made possible by voluntary donations of time and money from the American people.

Help people affected by disasters like Tropical Storm Ana and countless other crises by making a gift to American Red Cross Disaster Relief. Your gift enables the Red Cross to prepare for, respond to and help people recover from disasters big and small. Visit redcross.org/donate, or call 1-800-REDCROSS. Contributions may also be sent to your local Red Cross chapter, or to the American Red Cross, P.O. Box 37243, Washington, DC 20013.

Interested volunteers can go to our website to sign up: http://www.redcross.org/hi/honolulu/volunteer/apply-to-volunteer or call 808-739-8130 for more information. Those interested can also sign up via our Team Red Cross App, which provides an easy and quick way for people to sign up to help the Red Cross and support their community. Once users download the app, they create an account. Then they learn about different jobs, such as working in a warehouse, handing out supplies or assisting with feeding. When the Red Cross has a need for volunteers, the Team Red Cross App will notify users based on their location. Potential volunteers can instantly accept or decline the volunteer opportunity. This app can be downloaded by visiting redcross.org/apps.

For more updates, follow the Hawaii Chapter of the American Red Cross on Twitter at @HawaiiRedCross. You can also contact the Hawaii Chapter at 808-734-2101 or visit redcross.org/hawaii.

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Big Island Libraries Closed Friday; Programs at All Libraries Cancelled

As Tropical Storm Ana approaches our Hawaiian Islands, and for the health and safety of our patrons and staff, all Big Island public libraries will be closed on Friday, October 17, announced State Librarian Richard Burns.

In addition, programs at all libraries on all islands scheduled for Saturday, October 18 have been cancelled including:

* “Make Your Own Apron Craft Workshop” featuring the Lei Ilima Club at Aina Haina Public Library, scheduled for 10:30 a.m.

* “Spooky Hawaii Tales” featuring storyteller Dann Seki at McCully-Moiliili Public Library, scheduled for 10:30 a.m.

* “Music of Japan” featuring Darin Miyashiro (koto) and David Amann (shakuhachi) at Hawaii State Library, scheduled for noon.

* “Learn About the Hawaii International Film Festival” featuring Chuck Boller, Director Emeritus of HIFF, at Kapolei Public Library, scheduled for 1 p.m.

Announcements will be made when these programs are rescheduled.

Other public libraries may cancel their upcoming programs this weekend: please visit www.librarieshawaii.org or call your local library.

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Closures announced for state park and forest areas, harbors

The Department of Land and Natural Resources (DLNR) is advising the public to follow instructions of State Civil Defense and County Civil Defense agencies to prepare for the possibility of heavy rain, flooding, strong winds, power outages, large surf and coastal surge with the arrival of tropical storm system Ana as early as Friday on the Big Island.

Presently a tropical storm but forecast to become a hurricane in state waters, Ana’s track and intensity may be affected by various weather factors. However, people should heed weather reports and be ready in event of emergency situations.

DLNR is asking for the public’s cooperation with this announcement of area closures as the storms approach. People are advised to avoid forested and coastal areas due to potential for rising streams, flash flooding, falling trees, storm surge or high surf.

DLNR-managed areas closing Thursday, Oct. 16:

· All state forest managed lands on Hawaii island were closed Thursday, until further notice, including forest reserves, wildlife sanctuaries, natural area reserves, Na Ala Hele hiking trails, game management areas, including the Keanakolu cabins, Ainapo hiking trail and cabin, Muliwai trail and Waimanu valley campground.

· Scheduled weekend hunts at Puu Waa Waa and Puu Oo have been canceled.

· All state forest managed lands on Maui, Molokai and Lanai closed today, until further notice, including forest reserves, wildlife sanctuaries, natural area reserves, Na Ala Hele hiking trails, game management areas.

Areas closing Friday, Oct. 17:

· All State Parks on Hawaii island, Maui and Molokai will be closed on Friday, until further notice. Campers in remote coastal areas have been notified to leave.

· All state-managed Kauai forest reserves, natural area reserves, trails, hunting areas and campgrounds will be closed on Friday, until further notice, including Waimea Canyon, Alakai Wilderness, Sugi Grove and Kawaikoi.

· State small boat harbors on Hawaii island and Maui will be closed at 4:30 p.m. on Friday, until further notice.

Areas closed starting Saturday, Oct. 18:

· All State Parks on Oahu will be closed until further notice. There will be no Friday night camping in Oahu park campgrounds.

· All Oahu state forest areas, hiking trails and public hunting areas will be closed until further notice, including the Manoa Falls trail, and Peacock Flats camping area.

· All state-managed Kauai forest reserves, natural area reserves, trails, hunting areas and campgrounds will be closed until further notice, including Waimea Canyon, Alakai Wilderness, Sugi Grove and Kawaikoi.

· All Kauai state parks are closed until further notice, including Napali Coast State Wilderness Park and the Kalalau trail. Trail closed signs will be posted at the Kalalau trailhead and campers at Kalalau beach were warned to evacuate or shelter in place.

· Oahu and Kauai small boat harbors will be closed at on Saturday, until further notice. are advised to monitor VHF radio for Coast Guard information on port closures and other safety advisories.

· Issuance of all state forest camping and state park camping permits has been suspended until further notice.

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DLNR CANCELS FOUR SCHEDULED WEEKEND HUNTS

The Department of Land and Natural Resources (DLNR) Division of Forestry and Wildlife is canceling four scheduled weekend hunts, for public safety due to the approaching tropical storm Ana which will reach the islands by tomorrow.

Here are the cancellations:

Hawaii island:
Puu Waa Waa feral goat and sheep hunt on Saturday and Sunday Oct. 18 and 19

Special access cattle control hunt at Puu Oo on Saturday Oct. 18

Lanai:
Mouflon sheep rifle hunt, Saturday and Sunday Oct. 18 and 19

Kauai:
Black-tailed deer hunt, Saturday and Sunday Oct. 18 and 19.

For further information, contact the Hawaii DOFAW office at (808) 974-4221, Maui DOFAW office at (808) 984-8100 or Kauai DOFAW office at (808) 274-3433.

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HPA PUMPKIN PATCH POSTPONED TO OCT. 26

The 23rd Annual Pumpkin Patch Festival at Hawaii Preparatory Academy’s scheduled for Sunday, October 19, has been postponed due to Tropical Storm Ana.

The event now will be held from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. on Sunday, October 26, at the schoolʻs Upper Campus.

The 23rd Annual Pumpkin Patch Festival, sponsored by the school’s Ohana Association and Dr. Joan Greco, will feature a pumpkin patch with locally-grown pumpkins and a new $20 wristband for keiki that gives them access to all of the games and activities at the event.

The keiki wristband covers the climbing wall, horseback rides, laser tag, The Zoo Choo Train, inflatable bouncer, the new 28-foot high double lane slip ‘n slide and much more. Be sure to bring your swimsuit and a towel!

Each year, the annual Pumpkin Patch Festival attracts thousands of visitors with its quality, live entertainment featured throughout the day. This year’s musical line up includes the Honokaa High School Jazz Band, Ms. B and The Boys, Mikiala Yardley and her trio, and more.

Food booths will be plentiful, offering hamburgers, hot dogs, and local favorites, such as lau lau, GJ Huli Chicken, ribs, shoyu chicken, and foods with an Asian flare. There will be lots of beverages, shave ice, Braddah Pops, and ice cream to keep everyone cool throughout the day.

Again this year, the annual Pumpkin Patch Festival will host several non-profit community organizations. Come see what a wonderful job these hard-working groups are doing and find out how you can help.

Through a grant from Recycle Hawaii and the HPA Ohana Association, the Pumpkin Patch is now a zero waste event coordinated by Noah Dodd, HPA Lower School garden coordinator, and Sam Robinson. Both will be available to offer their expertise to make it an educational day.

Come pick a pumpkin and get your $20 wristband for an entire day of fun sponsored by the school’s Ohana Association and Dr. Joan Greco, DDS. The HPA Upper Campus is located on the corner of Kohala Mountain Road and Kawaihae Road in Waimea.

For more information, please contact Pamela Heitz at pamelaheitz@sbcglobal.net, or call 405-740-4937.

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Update on Impact of Tropical Storm Ana to Hawaii and Matson’s Vessel Schedule

As many of you are aware, Tropical Storm Ana with winds to 50 knots, gusts to 65 knots and seas to 20-feet continues to track towards Hawaii at 9 knots. The Tropical Storm did not strengthen to Hurricane status late yesterday as was forecasted and actually weakened slightly.

The Tropical Storm, however, is expected to strengthen to Hurricane status by Friday morning and its center is tracking to pass within 108 nautical miles from Hilo and 50 nautical miles from Honolulu.

• Mokihana docked last night at 2143, delayed 2.6 hours, mainly due to weather and is expected to sail Honolulu around 0400 on Saturday prior to any expected port closure.

• Maui and Manukai could be impacted by projected port closures and will advise as conditions change.

• The Big Island – Mauna Loa will depart Honolulu 1730 today for Kawaihae and will seek shelter until port re-opens, most likely sometime Saturday.

• Maui – Haleakala will depart Honolulu 1200 today and arrive Kahului 0001 on Friday and stay as long as possible until port closure, sometime Friday afternoon.

• Kauai – Waialeale will depart Honolulu 2130 Thursday and arrive Nawiliwili 0930 Friday and depart port at 1700 Friday for Honolulu.

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UPDATED: 6 p.m. Wednesday, Oct. 15

Governor Signs Emergency Proclamation in Anticipation of Tropical Storm Ana

Gov. Neil Abercrombie has signed an emergency proclamation in anticipation of the arrival of Tropical Storm Ana, which is forecast to impact the state this weekend, possibly as a hurricane.

The proclamation, which includes all of the main Hawaiian Islands, allows the state to draw upon funds for protective measures. It also allows easier access to emergency resources at the state and federal levels, along with the suspension of certain laws as needed for emergency purposes.

“Now is the time for all of us to prepare for Ana,” said Gov. Abercrombie. “The best way the state can prepare is through this proclamation, which allows us to respond quickly to any potential impacts.”

The disaster emergency relief period for the proclamation begins Wednesday and continues through Oct. 24, 2014.

Recommended preparedness actions may be found on the Hawaii Emergency Management Agency website at scd.hawaii.gov. Residents are also encouraged to enroll in local notification systems and monitor local radio and television broadcasts.

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Public schools closed on Friday

The state Department of Education (DOE) will close all public schools on the Big Island on Friday, Oct. 17. Closures are being made in anticipation of severe weather.

Students and staff of these schools will be dismissed at the end of the school day Thursday. Additionally, all inter-scholastic athletic events and student activities are canceled beginning Thursday and through the weekend, resuming when schools reopen.

Many DOE schools serve as emergency shelters; however, County Civil Defense agencies have determined which schools are activated shelters.

Note the following:

Hawaii County designated shelters:
Kau High & Pahala Elementary
Keaau High
Kohala High & Elementary
Kealakehe High
Konawaena High
Hilo High
Waiakea High
Pahoa High & Intermediate
Honokaa High & Intermediate
Waikoloa Elementary

Check with State or County Civil Defense for more information on emergency shelters. For updated information on public school operations, follow the DOE on Twitter at @HIDOE808.

For more information on public charter schools’ closures, visit http://www.chartercommission.hawaii.gov/.

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Reopening of Panaewa Zoo Playground Cancelled

This weekend’s scheduled reopening of the children’s playground equipment at the Panaewa Rainforest Zoo and Gardens has been canceled due to wet weather.

Rainy conditions have prolonged installation of an upgraded synthetic turf safety system that is expected to last longer than the playground’s original ground covering.

To minimize impacts to playground users, the playground was scheduled to be reopened temporarily on both Saturday, Oct. 18, and Sunday, Oct. 19. However, more time is needed before it will be ready for public use.

Installation of the upgraded playground surface is expected to be finished by the original completion date of Friday, Oct. 24.

Other areas of the zoo and gardens remain open from 9 a.m. until 4 p.m. daily.

The Department of Parks and Recreation apologizes for any inconvenience caused by the temporary closure and thanks zoo users and the general public for their patience and understanding while the modification work is occurring.

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Mayor’s Health Fest, Keiki Triathlon Cancelled

The Mayor’s 2014 Health Fest and Keiki Triathlon scheduled for Saturday, Oct. 18, at Kailua Park have been cancelled due to approaching Tropical Storm Ana.

Hawaii Island is expected to experience strong winds, high surf and heavy rain should Tropical Storm Ana make landfall here.

Due to the anticipated hazardous weather, the decision was made to cancel the events to protect the public and encourage motorists to stay off the roads.

The Department of Parks and Recreation and the Hawaii Isle Police Activities League, triathlon co-sponsors, thank event participants and the general public for understanding the need to focus on public safety.

For more information, contact Jason Armstrong, Public Information Officer, at 961-8311 or jarmstrong@hawaiicounty.gov.

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Hawaii Volcanoes National Park will close Friday

Hawaii Volcanoes National Park will be closed Friday, Oct. 17 in anticipation of Tropical Storm Ana.

According to the Central Pacific Hurricane Center in Honolulu, Tropical Storm Ana was located about 625 miles southeast of Hilo as of 2 p.m. Wednesday. At that time, the storm had maximum sustained winds at 70 mph, was moving west at nine miles per hour.

It is expected to become a hurricane later Wednesdy and will bring heavy rain, high wind speeds, and dangerous surf conditions.

No backcountry permits will be issued after 6 p.m. Thursday. The park’s Kahuku Unit will close the entire weekend, and International Archeology Day, previously scheduled for Saturday, is canceled and will be rescheduled at a later date.

If it is safe to do so, the park and its visitor centers will reopen at noon on Saturday, Oct. 18.

“Our first priority is to keep our visitors, staff, and volunteers safe,” said Park Superintendent Cindy Orlando. “We will reassess Saturday, and will reopen by noon as long as it is safe,” she said.

Volcano House and KÄ«lauea Military Camp will remain open to registered guests.

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Waimea County School postpones Oktoberfest

Due to the pending storm – Tropical Storm Ana – the Rotary has made the call to postpone Oktoberfest, thus the Silent Auction Fundraiser is also postponed.

The new date is Saturday, Nov. 15.

Tickets will be honored on the new date or ticket holders can request a refund from Rotary.

For further updates, check: http://waimeacountryschool.org/auction14_cat.html

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Young Brothers Announces Update on Port Operations Statewide

Young Brothers, Limited has issued the following updates on its operations at ports of call throughout Hawaii, as of 5 p.m. Hawaii Standard Time (HST).

During the course of the next several days, the company will be issuing updates on its operations at each port of call throughout Hawaii as they may be affected by Tropical Storm Ana. Young Brothers encourages its customers to visit its website, www.youngbrothershawaii.com, for updates for the duration of this event.

Since the last update, the projected speed of the storm’s approach has increased and has required us to update operations at certain ports.

All sailings returning to Honolulu will be subject to the U.S. Coast Guard closure of the Port of Honolulu, which we expect to occur early Saturday morning, Oct. 18, 2014.

Honolulu to Hilo and return voyage:

Tuesday sailing – Honolulu to Hilo (Oct. 14, 2014): No Change. This barge departed as scheduled on Tuesday and will be discharged upon its arrival in Hilo tonight. All cargo will be available on Thursday.

Thursday sailing – Hilo to Honolulu (Oct. 15, 2014): No Change. This barge will depart Hilo on Thursday morning, with an arrival and cargo availability on Friday afternoon until 3:30 p.m. in Honolulu. All types of cargo, except hazardous cargo, will be accepted for this voyage.

Saturday sailing – Honolulu to Hilo (Oct. 18, 2014): Update. This sailing has been postponed. Only dry straightload containers (but no refrigerated or hazardous cargo) will be accepted in Honolulu.

Based on present projections, we expect the U.S. Coast Guard to close the Port of Hilo on Friday (Oct. 17, 2014).

Honolulu to Kaumalapau and Kaunakakai and return voyage

Tuesday sailing – Honolulu to Kaumalapau and Kaunakakai (Oct. 14, 2014): No Change. This barge has departed for the Ports of Kaumalapau and Kaunakakai as scheduled. Cargo will be available on Wednesday as scheduled at Kaumalapau and on Thursday as scheduled at Kaunakakai. It is recommended that all cargo be retrieved from these ports prior to noon on Thursday.

Wednesday sailing – return of Kaumalapau and Kaunakakai barge to Honolulu (Oct. 15, 2014): No Change. All types of cargo will be accepted for this voyage back to Honolulu. This barge will depart Kaunakakai on Wednesday as scheduled, with an arrival on Thursday in Honolulu.

Sunday sailing – Honolulu to Kaunakakai (Oct. 19, 2014): No Change. Young Brothers’ Sunday sailing from Honolulu to Kaunakakai has been postponed.

Based on present projections, we expect the U.S. Coast Guard to close the Ports of Kaumalapau and Kaunakakai on Friday (Oct. 17, 2014).

Honolulu to Kahului and return voyage:

Wednesday sailing – Honolulu to Kahului (Oct. 15, 2014): No Change. Maui’s Wednesday barge will sail as scheduled. All types of cargo will be accepted for this voyage.

Thursday sailing – Kahului to Honolulu (Oct. 16, 2014): No Change. This barge will sail as scheduled. All types of cargo will be accepted for this voyage. Cargo will be available in Honolulu on Friday until 3:30 p.m.

Thursday sailing – Honolulu to Kahului (Oct. 16, 2014) Update. Young Brothers is presently planning to sail to Kahului on Thursday with an early departure at 1:00 p.m., with a scheduled arrival in Kahului on Friday before 4:00 a.m. Young Brothers will accept only straightload containers (but no hazardous cargo) for this voyage. The cut-off time for straightload containers will be 11:00 a.m. No exceptions will be made.

Friday sailing – Kahului to Honolulu (Oct. 17, 2014): Update. Young Brothers will accept only straightload containers (but no refrigerated or hazardous cargo). Young Brothers will depart Kahului early Friday afternoon.

Based on present projections, we expect the U.S. Coast Guard to close the Port of Kahului on Friday (Oct. 17, 2014).

Honolulu to Nāwiliwili and return voyage:

Thursday sailing – Honolulu to Nāwiliwili (Oct. 16, 2014): No Change. Young Brothers is presently planning to sail from Honolulu to Nāwiliwili on Thursday, with a scheduled arrival in Nāwiliwili on Friday. Young Brothers will accept all types of cargo for the voyage from Honolulu to Nāwiliwili.

Friday sailing – Nāwiliwili to Honolulu (Oct. 17, 2014): Update. Young Brothers is presently planning to sail from Nāwiliwili to Honolulu on Friday, with a scheduled arrival in Honolulu on Saturday. Young Brothers will accept only straightload containers (but no refrigerated or hazardous cargo) for the voyage from Nāwiliwili to Honolulu.

Based on present projections, we expect the U.S. Coast Guard to close the Port of Nāwiliwili on Sunday (Oct. 19, 2014).

Honolulu to Kawaihae and return voyage:

Thursday sailing – Honolulu to Kawaihae (Oct. 16, 2014): Update. This sailing has been postponed. Beginning Wednesday, only straightload containers will be accepted. No refrigerated or hazardous cargo will be accepted.

Based on present projections, we expect the U.S. Coast Guard to close the Port of Kawaihae on Friday (Oct. 17, 2014).

Each of these plans for Young Brothers’ port operations is subject to change based upon weather conditions and directions given to us by the United States Coast Guard and the State of Hawaii Department of Transportation. We will update you when information becomes available, including information on the dates and times of closing and reopening of specific ports.

Young Brothers, Limited, with approximately 340 employees across the state, has served Hawaii since 1900. Young Brothers is a publicly regulated water carrier providing 12 weekly port calls from Honolulu to the state’s neighbor island ports, including Hilo, Kawaihae, Kahului, Kaumalapau, Kaunakakai and Nāwiliwili.

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Emergency electrical safety tips from the Hawaiian Electric Companies

With the approach of Tropical Storm Ana to Hawaii, the Hawaiian Electric Companies want to remind customers that electricity can be dangerous and electrical safety should never be taken for granted, especially during an emergency situation.

Hawaiian Electric, Maui Electric, and Hawaii Electric Light urge customers to consider the following safety measures before, during and after a disaster or power outage:

Before a storm hits or if there is a power outage, unplug all unnecessary electric equipment and appliances until the storm has passed or until power is restored.

Stay away from downed power lines. Assume they are energized and dangerous. If you see someone injured after touching a downed power line, call 9-1-1 for help.

Should you need to evacuate, take emergency supplies and remember to shut off electricity at the main breaker or switch.

Make plans in advance to go to a safe location where electricity will be available if someone in your home depends on an electrically powered life support system and you don’t have a backup generator. Some shelters are designed for people with health needs—just remember to take your own medical equipment and medications.

When using a portable generator, carefully read and follow instructions in the manufacturer’s manual. Do not plug the generator into your household electrical outlets.

If you have a rooftop photovoltaic system, consult with your licensed solar contractor regarding normal and emergency operation procedures for your solar system. As a safety precaution, most photovoltaic systems are designed to safely shut down during outages. PV systems typically have monitoring systems which allow owners to check on the status of their system.

If you become trapped in an elevator during a power outage, relax and stay calm until help arrives. Use elevator emergency communication systems to report where you are and who is with you. Do not try to force open elevator doors. Never try to exit a stalled elevator car. Always wait for trained and qualified emergency personnel.

The Hawaiian Electric Companies’ free “Information Handbook for Emergency Preparedness” includes these tips and more. It can be downloaded at http://hawaiielectriclight.com/prepare.

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Hurricane Evacuation And Recovery Tips

With Tropical Storm Ana approaching Hawaii and expected to intensify into a hurricane, AAA Hawaii urges its members and residents living near the coast to gather and review their insurance policies and other important papers in case they need to make a claim after the storm.

Claims assistance is available through AAA Hawaii claims hotline: 1-800-672-5246 (1-800-67-CLAIM).

The following tips can help protect your property and speed your recovery in the event of a storm:

Read your policy carefully so you know what coverage you have purchased.

Make a current inventory—List the items you own. Photograph or videotape each room and the exterior of your home, if possible. List item serial numbers when available.

Safeguard your records—Keep insurance policies and your inventory in a safe deposit box or other secure spot. Accurate records speed up claims processing and can help prove tax-deductible, uninsured losses.

Have a sufficient supply of drinking water, dry and canned goods and toiletries. Power may be out for a few days; stores may be inaccessible and safe drinking water may be unavailable from the tap.

Plan for an evacuation—If local authorities recommend or mandate evacuations, follow these instructions:

Take important records with you. Have copies available of your homeowner, auto, health, and other insurance policies.

Check medication supplies and first aid equipment. Take copies of prescriptions.

Check batteries in radios and flashlights.

Make arrangements for your pets. Hotels and shelters may or may not accept pets.

Following the storm:

Check your house and car for damage.

Prepare an inventory of damaged property and try to store undamaged property in a protected place where it will not be stolen.

Take photographs of damaged property for the claims adjuster before any trash pick-ups.

Contact AAA Hawaii promptly to report damage and follow up with a written claim.

Make necessary repairs to protect your home and property from further damage:

Cover broken windows and holes to keep rain out.

Dry out the area as much as you can.

If carpet is soaked, remove it and carpet pad. Keep a two-foot square piece.

Run AC, dehumidifier and fans constantly. Repair if necessary.

Disconnect computer and appliances from electrical sources.

Open cabinet doors and elevate furniture so air can circulate.

Wash wet CD’s or LP records with warm water and dry.

Save wet books or photo albums by putting them on edge in a frost free freezer.

Test drywall for moisture softness. If soft, cut holes at base to help dry.

Try to be present when the adjuster inspects your damage.

FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS:

The following are answers to some frequently asked questions regarding evacuations:

Question: Where can I find the most recent information about emergency shelters?

Answer: If you are need emergency shelter, water, or food, call 1-800-REDCROSS or find your local Red Cross chapter online.

Question: I’m having trouble finding a hotel with availability; what can I do?

Answer: If you need help finding a hotel, call our reservations number at 1-877-222-1020 or use the AAA Hawaii online travel booking service. AAA travel agents have access to the most up-to-date information on hotel availability and can assist you immediately.

Question: I want to let my family know I’m safe, but I’m having a hard time getting in touch with them. What can I do?

Answer: People affected by the hurricane are encouraged to register on the Red Cross Safe and Well website. People without access to a computer or without electricity or connectivity can call the Red Cross (1-800-REDCROSS) for help registering, or to register a loved one on their behalf.

The following are answers to frequently asked questions regarding AAA Hawaii insurance claims:

Question: If a civil authority requires that I leave my home due to the hurricane, even if it is not ultimately damaged, are my hotel expenses covered?

Answer: Homeowners, condominium owners, and renters policies purchased through AAA Hawaii all provide coverage for additional living expense when a civil authority has ordered you out of your home. This coverage provides not only hotel expenses, but also reasonable and necessary costs that you actually incur, including increases in food expense. This coverage is provided for up to a two-week period during the time the authorities do not allow you to return to your home.

Question: What do I need to do to file a claim?

Answer: To start the process, call our Claims Department at 1-800-67-CLAIM (1-800-672-5246).

Question: I don’t have my policy number. I left it at home. Is that going to be a problem?

Answer: Don’t worry about providing your policy number. All we need to get started is the address of the insured property and your phone number.

Question: Can I file my claim online?

Answer: Yes, you can start the claim process online by emailing pmgclaims@aaa-calif.com. To help us begin, include your home address, two phone numbers where we can reach you immediately, and a brief description of what has happened (fire damage, smoke damage, water damage, wind damage, evacuation expenses, etc.).

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AT&T NETWORKS PREPARED AS TROPICAL STORM ANA APPROACHES

AT&T has activated our storm preparedness process as we closely monitor Tropical Storm Ana, which is expected to strengthen to a hurricane later this week as it nears the southern edge of Hawaii’s Big Island.

Among our preparations, we’ve topped off fuel at generators positioned at cell sites, installed and tested high-capacity back-up batteries at cell sites and staged additional emergency response equipment in strategic locations. Our national reliability center is monitoring outages for quick action.

“Our customers rely on AT&T, particularly during storms like this,” said Tammi Terrell, AT&T Vice President & General Manager, Southwest and Hawaii. “That’s why we conduct extensive readiness drills and simulations throughout the year and do all that we can to have our networks prepared when severe weather strikes.”

The AT&T National Disaster Recovery (NDR) program is one of the industry’s largest and most advanced disaster response programs and includes more than 320 technology and equipment trailers that can be quickly deployed to respond to disasters. The NDR team works closely with local AT&T network personnel, regional Emergency Operations Centers and Local Response Centers to restore and maintain service until permanent repairs can be made.

Just as we prepare our networks and personnel, AT&T encourages residents and small businesses to consider the following recommendations in the wake of a storm.

Keeping the lines open for emergencies

During evacuations, the storm event and its aftermath, network resources will likely be taxed. To help ensure that emergency personnel have open lines, keep these tips in mind:

·Text messaging. During an emergency situation, text messages may go through more quickly than voice calls because they require fewer network resources. All of AT&T’s wireless devices are text messaging capable. Depending on your text or data plan, additional charges may apply.

Be prepared for high call volume. During an emergency, many people are trying to use their phones at the same time. The increased calling volume may create network congestion, leading to “fast busy” signals on your wireless phone or a slow dial tone on your landline phone. If this happens, hang up, wait several seconds and then try the call again. This allows your original call data to clear the network before you try again.

Keep non-emergency calls to a minimum, and limit your calls to the most important ones. If there is severe weather, chances are many people will be attempting to place calls to loved ones, friends and business associates.

Consumer Tips:

Keep your wireless phone batteries charged at all times. In case of a power outage, have alternate means of charging your phone available, such as an extra battery, car charger or device-charging accessory.

Keep your wireless phone dry. The biggest threat to your device during a hurricane is water, so keep your equipment safe from the elements by storing it in a baggie or some other type of protective covering, such as a waterproof phone cover.

Have a family communication plan in place. Designate someone out of the area as a central contact, and make certain that all family members know who to contact if they get separated. Most importantly, practice your emergency plan in advance.

Program all of your emergency contact numbers and e-mail addresses into your mobile phone. Numbers should include the police department, fire station and hospital, as well as your family members.

Forward your home number to your wireless number in the event of an evacuation. Because call forwarding is based out of the telephone central office, you will get incoming calls from your landline phone even if your local telephone service is disrupted at your home. In the unlikely event that the central office is not operational, services such as Voicemail, Call Forwarding, Remote Access call forwarding and call forwarding busy line/don’t answer may be useful.
Track the storm and access weather information on your wireless device. Many homes lose power during severe weather. If you have a working wireless device that provides access to the Internet, you can watch weather reports or keep updated with local radar and severe weather alerts.

Camera phones provide assistance. If you have a camera phone, take, store and send photos — even video clips — of damaged property to your insurance company from your device.

Take advantage of location-based mapping technology. Services such as AT&T Navigator and AT&T FamilyMap can help you seek evacuation routes or avoid traffic congestion from downed trees or power lines, as well as track a family member’s wireless device in case you get separated.

Small Business Tips:

Set up a call-forwarding service to a predetermined backup location. Set up a single or multiple hotline number(s) for employees, employees’ families, customers and partners, as appropriate, to call so that all parties know about the business situation and emergency plan.
Back up data to the Cloud. Routinely back up files to an off-site location.
Outline detailed plans for evacuation and shelter-in-place plans. Practice these plans (employee training, etc.). Establish a backup location for your business and meeting place for all employees.

Assemble a crisis-management team and coordinate efforts with neighboring businesses and building management. Be aware that disasters affecting your suppliers also affect your business. Outline a plan for supply chain continuity for business essentials.
Consider a back-up cellular network. Services like AT&T Remote Mobility Zone, allows organizations to protect their critical communications by installing small cell sites at the businesses’ locations. If a disaster disables primary communications networks, the back-up cellular network can help keep your company connected.

— Find out more:
www.att.com/vitalconnections