Counties launch disaster preparedness education campaign

Officials from Hawaii’s four counties are launching a new campaign to educate residents about disaster preparedness.

The pilot education campaign began Wednesday.

“We want to remain constantly vigilant,” Mayor Billy Kenoi said. “We want our residents to always be conscious of potential disasters.”

Residents should keep emergency kits and supplies, including water, food, batteries and fuel, on hand, the mayor said, “the idea being we constantly hope for the best and prepare for the worst.”

Officials cited a recent, statewide phone survey by Ward Research that reported 89 percent of residents say they have experienced a large-scale disaster, but only 25 percent say they are prepared for such a disaster. The survey also reported 82 percent of residents believe the government is responsible for residents preparedness.

“Many residents said they were too busy or that they never thought about preparing,” a press release about the survey said. “Others even admitted to being lazy or resigned to wait until the need arises.”

Oahu is the site for the pilot campaign to determine what messages and methods of communication are most likely to improve disaster preparedness.

“Hawaii has island-specific disaster preparedness challenges affected by a combination of economic, language and cultural factors. But the state is also blessed with committed organizations that serve vulnerable populations and help in outreach,” said Melvin N. Kaku, Honolulu’s Director of Emergency Management. “There is no better time than now to prepare.”

The campaign includes public service announcements that include a TV spot, several radio spots, print advertising, environmental advertising, point-of-purchase displays at retail locations and a significant online/social media presence.

Residents may get more information about disaster readiness at getreadyhi.org.