Volume 13 - June 2019
Hurricane season in Hawaii runs from June 1 through November 30. The Central Pacific Hurricane Center is predicting five to eight tropical storms or hurricanes, underscoring the need for residents to have emergency plans and supplies.

Families should have an emergency plan and survival kit ready before a disaster warning is issued. Here are a few helpful suggestions from Maui Electric on how to prepare:

  • Gather emergency supplies, such as a battery-powered radio, flashlights, batteries, and a first aid kit.
  • Store enough water, non-perishable food, medicine, and personal hygiene supplies for your family members and pets to last at least 14 days.
  • Unplug all unnecessary electric appliances and equipment during a storm or a power outage. When power is restored, plug in equipment one at a time.
  • Shut off your electricity at the main breaker or switch if you need to evacuate.
  • Consider having a backup generator if you are dependent on an electronic life support system. Alternatively, make plans to go to a facility where electricity will be available. Be prepared to take your medical equipment and medications with you.
  • Prepare a list of emergency contacts that includes phone numbers for insurance agents, vendors, physicians or any other important individuals.
  • If you see a downed power line, assume it is energized and dangerous. Assume that all objects touching the power line are also energized.
Fallen Trees
and Power Lines

Fallen trees and branches are one of the most common causes of power outages. Consider trimming trees that could fall onto a powerline to prevent outages during a storm or hurricane.

If you come across a downed power line, do not touch or go near it. Stay at least 50 feet away from the line and anything it comes in contact with.

To report a power outage, please call the Maui Electric Trouble Line at 871-7777, or toll-free from Molokaʻi and Lānaʻi at 1-877-871-8461.

For power outage updates, follow Maui Electric on Twitter @MauiElectric or sign up for text or email notifications at www.mauielectric.com .
For an online copy of Maui Electric’s helpful Handbook for Emergency Preparedness go to  www.mauielectric.com/prepare
Red Cross Shelter - These are the dedicated volunteers who give with their hearts for our residents and visitors who need some shelter from the effects of 2018 Hurricane Lane.
Emergency Alerts

If the outdoor warning sirens sound, or if you receive a wireless emergency alert, turn on your TV, radio or open up a mobile news app for updates. Please tune into Maui broadcasting networks to ensure that your news is relevant to Maui County.

To receive county generated alerts about emergencies and other important community news, sign up for the Maka’ala Emergency Alert Program at mauicounty.gov/emergency . This system enables the Maui Emergency Management Agency to provide you with critical information quickly for a variety of emergency situations.
Be Safe After

After a hurricane, you may face flooding, downed power lines, damage from mold, and other risks to your health. Below are tips on how to recover safely from Ready, a National public service campaign designed to educate and empower the American people to prepare for, respond to and mitigate emergencies.

  • Listen to authorities for information and special instructions.
  • Do not touch electrical equipment if it is wet or if you are standing in water.
  • Avoid wading in flood water, which can contain dangerous debris.
  • Save phone calls for emergencies. Phone systems are often down or busy after a disaster. Use text messages or social media to communicate with family and friends.
  • Document any property damage with photographs. Contact your insurance company for assistance.

In the meantime, please feel free to contact me via e-mail or phone:
Office phone: 808-270-7939
Cell phone: 808-870-8047

Thank you for the privilege to serve as your Councilmember!
For more information: https://www.mauicounty.gov
Council Member Yuki Lei Sugimura | County of Maui | 808 270-7939
[email protected] | www.mauicounty.us/sugimura