From tropical storms, hurricane season, to the threat of tsunamis, in Hawai’i, we are no strangers to the power of nature. Preparing for a disaster requires more than just a flashlight and extra water. It requires a plan that covers the specific health needs of every generation in your home, from Keiki to Kupuna. Consider your unique health needs and adjust your plan for medications, medical equipment, and personal support.
Consider using this guide to help you and your ‘ohana stay prepared.
Build a Health-Focused Emergency Kit
While standard kits include food and water, your medical needs require extra attention. Whether you’re packing for yourself or your whole family, consider adding the following to your emergency kit:
- Medications: Keep your medications together in a safe, dry place that is easily accessible in case of an emergency.
- For the Keiki: Formula, diapers, wipes and age-appropriate fever reducers. Include a comfort item like a favorite book or stuffed animal to help reduce stress.
- Medical Documents: Have a waterproof bag, keep copies of medical ID cards for everyone, immunization records for Keiki, and a list of medical conditions/allergies for Kupuna.
- Power for Devices: If you or a family member uses a CPAP machine, oxygen concentrator, or power wheelchair, identify a backup power source (like a portable battery) or a location you can go to that has a generator.
- Specialty Supplies: Don’t forget extra batteries for hearing aids, backup eyeglasses, or supplies for monitoring blood sugar.
Plan for Specific Health Needs
Different conditions require different strategies.
| If you or a family member… | Take these steps now (before a disaster): |
| Is on Dialysis | Know the location of at least two other dialysis centers in case your primary one is closed. |
| Uses Oxygen | Ensure your tanks are secured so they don’t fall during an earthquake and have a manual backup ready. |
| Has a Service Animal | Pack 14 days of food and water for them and keep a copy of their vaccination records in your kit. |
| Uses Medication that Must Stay Cold | have a dedicated cooler and reusable ice packs ready |
Create Your Support Network
Don’t try to manage a disaster alone. Identify three trusted people (neighbors or friends) who can assist you or your family.
- Assign Roles: Decide who is responsible for grabbing the emergency kit and who will assist the keiki or kupuna during a quick evacuation.
- Emergency Contacts: Make sure your keiki know who to call if they are separated from you, and ensure kupuna have these numbers written in large, clear print.
Know Where to Go
In Hawai’i, your first choice should be staying with family or friends in a safe area. If you must go to a public shelter, remember:
- Medical Needs: If you or a family member require 24/7 nursing care, speak with your case manager or Primary Care Provider now to determine which facilities in your area can accommodate both your needs and those of your family member during a storm.
- Standard Shelters: Provide a safe space but do not offer personalized medical care or supplies for you or your family member. Be sure to bring your entire emergency kit with you for everyone in your household.
Stay Informed
Sign up for emergency alerts today:
More Resources:
- State of Hawaii: Department of Health – Office of Public Health Preparedness
- State of Hawaii: Prepare an Emergency Kit – Includes information in other languages
- Hawai’i Emergency Management Agency – 2 Weeks Ready in Hawaii
At AlohaCare, Your Health is in Caring Hands
AlohaCare is a nonprofit health plan created in 1994 by Hawaiʻi’s community health centers and Queen Emma Clinics. We support people of all ages who qualify for government-funded health plans. We are proud to be the second largest Medicaid and Medicare health plan in Hawaiʻi, serving families across the state.