Hawaii is vulnerable to many natural disasters and potential health emergencies, and our distance from the mainland makes us even more vulnerable. When disaster strikes—whether it is natural or human-made—you can be prepared.

One way to prepare before disasters and emergencies happen is to prepare a go-bag, or an emergency kit. Even though emergency responders will be called in to assist, you may need to survive on your own for hours or even days immediately after an event. If there is an outbreak, you may suddenly be required to isolate or quarantine at home for five to fourteen days or more.

To start your kit, think about all the people who live with you and what each person or pet would need to get through the day. These are the items you want to prepare and stock up on for your emergency “go-kit.”

• • Plan out what you need for 14 days, or start with as many days of supplies as you can.
  • Stock supplies in an easy to find grab-and-go kit that has essential items for everyone in your household.
  • Keep enough food, water, medicine, chargers, important documents, some cash, and other essential supplies for yourself and your family.
  • Don’t forget about kids, pets, elderly relatives, someone who is pregnant or breastfeeding, and those with access and functional needs.

Remember, in the event of a disaster or emergency, you may not be able to get out to access food, water, medicine, supplies, or electricity for a period of time.

• • Also plan out what you would need if you were at work, school, or away from home during a disaster.
  • The Hawaii Department of Health’s FREE “Take 10” guide lists what you may need. For the FREE print-friendly 8″ x 10″ guide in 21 languages click here.
  • For more information, use the helpful tips in DOH’s free “Plan To Be Ready” guide.
  • To help get kids involved, we also have a fun keiki activity booklet.

Ready.gov has great tips for what to add to your disaster supplies kit. Remember, prepare your kit now, before an emergency or disaster happens—be sure you include masks and hand sanitizer if you must go to a shelter. It might be a while before help arrives, so have enough food, water, and other essential supplies to last for at least two weeks.

Other useful links

• • Learn about a basic emergency supply kit from ready.gov (includes COVID-19 considerations).
  • Get recommendations for maintaining your emergency kit.
  • Learn more about storing water.

Hawaii, Are YOU Ready? Make a Kit.

Last reviewed July 2024