PAKALA — The Kauai Emergency Management Agency (KEMA), in partnership with various partners, will continue wildfire preparedness outreach effort on Monday in Pakala Camp, from 8:30 a.m. to noon.
Kaumakani Camp and Kaumakani Avenue are the first in a series of initiatives planned for communities across the island that are vulnerable to wildfires.
The first outreach event in this series took place throughout Kaumakani Camp on July 14, followed by Kaumakani Avenue on Aug. 20.
As part of this outreach, officials from various county and partner agencies will be canvassing Pakala Camp, going door-to-door to share information on the “Be Ready, Be Set, Go Now!” evacuation levels, how to create evacuation plans, prepare emergency go-kits, and stay informed during rapidly changing wildfire conditions.
“Preparedness is one of the most powerful tools we have to keep our families and communities safe,” said Mayor Derek S.K. Kawakami. “Wildfire risks are real, as we saw with the Hanapepe-Kaumakani wildfire last year. By coming together as neighbors and staying informed, we can help protect each other. Mahalo to Gay and Robinson, our partners, and the Kaumakani community for being proactive and taking these steps to stay safe.”
“Every minute counts during a wildfire,” said Elton Ushio, administrator of KEMA. “Our goal with these door-to-door efforts is to reach people directly and ensure they know what steps to take before, during and after a wildfire. Being ready and having a plan can save lives.”
“Wildfires can move fast and become dangerous in a matter of moments,” said Kauai Fire Chief Michael Gibson. “If you feel unsafe, don’t wait—evacuate right away. It’s always better to leave early than risk getting caught in a dangerous situation. Our priority is keeping our residents and responders safe.”
Partners supporting this outreach include Gay and Robinson, the Kauai Fire Department, Kauai Police Department, Kauai Island Utility Cooperative, Kauai Department of Water, and the Office of the Mayor.
Residents are also encouraged to monitor the County of Kauai website and social media channels for emergency updates and preparedness information.
To view the “Be Ready, Be Set, Go Now!” evacuation levels, visit https://bit.ly/3VNbwkD.
To sign up for the county’s free emergency notification service, Wireless Emergency Notification System (WENS), go to the county website, www.kauai.gov/KEMA, and click “WENS.”
Those without Internet access can have their phone number and other pertinent information added to the county database by calling the Kauai Emergency Management Agency at 808-241-1800.
Source: The Garden Island
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