Disaster Preparedness Resources

Hurricane Season (June – November). From the State Department of Public Health Preparedness:

The Central Pacific Hurricane Season officially runs from June 1 until November 30, though tropical cyclones can occur off season and storms can happen at any time of year.
The Central Pacific Hurricane Center (CPHC) in Honolulu and National Hurricane Center (NHC) in Miami monitor possible storms even during the off season. During hurricane season, and any time of year, residents and visitors of Hawaii are advised to stay informed, practice your plan, and have your emergency kit ready.

Important Health Information: 

  • Stay up to date on all boosters and immunizations. This will be especially important if using an evacuation shelter.

  • Never drive, ride, or walk through water during heavy rains and flash flooding.

  • Storm water may contain bacteria, other pathogens, dangerous chemicals, debris, and other hazards you may not be able to see. 

  • Maintain your mental and emotional health and wellness. People affected by hurricanes and other weather disasters may feel more anxious and distressed. Call Hawaii CARES 988 statewide toll FREE at 1-800-753-6879 and talk with a live local representative 24/7 for help with crisis, mental health, and substance use. The Hawaii CARES 988 website has options for text and chat: https://hicares.hawaii.gov/.

  • Read the American Academy of Pediatrics’ recommendations for protecting children in response to natural disasters: www.healthychildren.org/English/healthy-living/emotional-wellness/Pages/Talking-to-Children-about-Disasters.aspx.
(End State Dept of Public Health information)
 
With more than 1.2 million members worldwide, Rotary members are on the ground and ready to take action to help communities recover when disasters strike. Rotary members and The Rotary Foundation play a unique role in disaster recovery and rebuilding efforts. Working closely with other organizations that specialize in disaster relief, Rotary members can assist or lead projects to support every phase of a community's recovery.
 
Rotary supports three phases of relief:
  1. Immediate response: Our local clubs and partners immediately offer helping hands and supplies.
  2. Short-term assistance: Our clubs and districts help affected communities wherever we can through funds and materials to re-establish day-to-day operations.
  3. Long-term rebuilding: Our clubs plan and implement projects that rebuild affected communities.
District 5000 Resources

PET & ANIMAL DISASTER PLANNING summary resources document posted in the margin. This attachment includes the statewide overview, Rotary‑fillable gaps, transportation considerations, and the alternatives to traditional sheltering that we talked through. Please feel free to share it with anyone who may find it helpful as we continue shaping the district’s disaster planning approach. Submitted by Rauchel Lyons, RC of Hilo

The Disaster Network of Assistance Rotary Action Group (DNA RAG) works to develop an interactive network of Rotarians, Rotaractors, and their spouses, and affiliated Rotarian and other groups to assist with disaster preparedness, communication, and recovery on a worldwide basis. Our primary focus is on disaster preparedness with an emphasis on communication between the affected area and potential assistance for long term recovery.  To join the Rotary Action Group, go to:  https://dna-rag.com/