Connecting Learning, Life and Aloha
‘O ka ‘imi na‘auao, ke ola a me ke aloha kā kākou e huliāmahi ai

Emergency Preparedness Information

When any emergency notification is received by the State of Hawaiʻi, the State Waring Point will activate the outdoor sirens statewide. Warning advisories will also be transmitted via cellular telephones, AM/FM radio, and television.

On this page:

Emergency Preparedness Flyer (PDF)

  • Missile Threats notified by outdoor sirens - Attack Warning is a wailing sound
  • Natural Disasters such as tsunami, hurricane, volcanic eruption, etc. notified by outdoor sirens - Attention Alert is a steady tone

Where is the best place to take refuge if there is a nuclear threat or radiation emergency?

  1. Get inside a building immediately. Stay inside and stay tuned. Radioactive material settles on the outside of buildings; so the best thing to do is stay as far away from the walls and roof of the building as you can.
  2. Close and lock all windows and doors.
  3. If possible, turn off fans, air conditioners, and forced-air heating units that bring air in from the outside. Close fireplace dampers.
  4. Bring pets inside.
  5. A basement or room underground is the best place to be. If you don't have a basement, stay as low as possible in the middle of the building away from windows and doors.

Do not remain outside.
Do not remain in your car.
Run to the closest building and stay in the middle of that building.
Get Inside, Stay Inside, Stay Tuned.

What to do to prepare for an emergency

Whether the emergency is a natural or a manmade disaster, it is important to be prepared for hurricanes, fires, civil disasters, bomb threats, other natural disasters, and now, nuclear threats.

Shelter In Place

Know ahead of time multiple places you can go in case your are at home, at work, or even driving

Have a Plan

Make certain you have family, workplace associates, and friends included in your plan. Know what to do, where to go, and be ready

Drill for Your Plan

Practice your plan so your actions will be automatic, as you may not have time to call family and friends

Keep an emergency supply kit on hand. The kit should include a minimum of 14 days worth of the following items:

  • Food, water, medications
  • Battery powered AM/FM radio
  • FRS/GMRS hand-held walkie-talkie
  • Flashlight with extra batteries
  • Important documents in a plastic bag
  • Whistles, blankets, and tarp
  • Personal hygiene items
  • First aid kit
  • Cash in small bills

Plan to meet the unique needs of your family, such as supplies for pets and seniors.

Emergency Operations Plan

View the UH Hilo Emergency Operations Plan (EOP) for information on preparing for hurricanes, fires, civil disasters, bomb threats, and other natural and manmade disasters.

Additional Websites