Despite Hawaii’s laid-back lifestyle, residents still need to prepare for potential emergency events during hurricane season. Being prepared with all the necessary information and a disaster emergency kit can help you cope until your property management company can help reestablish the comfort and accommodations Hawaii is known for. 

How Can Hawaii Residents Prepare for Hurricane Season? 

1. Look for Updates

Local news, websites, and social media can provide preparation information during hurricane season. Discuss the potential threats with your family members so that everyone will be safe during the hurricane season. If possible, signup for alerts with mobile apps or via text to provide updates.

2. Create Emergency Kits

Make sure that your emergency kit contains all the items needed during the disaster for at least 14 days. Your emergency kit should contain the following items:

• Non-perishable food, like canned meat, soup, fruits, and vegetables.
• Coolers and heavy-duty containers to store food.
• Water for drinking, cooking, and sanitation.
• A loud whistle that can be used to signal for help. Have one for each family member if you get separated. 
• Radios and spare batteries.
• Portable chargers. 
• Lighters, candles, and flashlights.
• OTC medication, prescriptions, and first aid kits.
• An air mattress and blankets. 
• Paper plates, plastic utensils, and plastic cups.
• Garbage bags.
• Hygiene products. 
• Masks or face coverings due to COVID-19. 

3. Secure Valuable Items

Store and secure all valuables, like jewelry, passports, bank, medical, insurance, and identification cards. Wrap them in plastic and seal them tightly to prevent water damage. You should also have emergency cash saved in a safe location in your apartment or condo. While it may not seem immediately relevant, the money can pay for temporary lodging, fuel, food, water, or necessary medication. The recommended amount will vary depending on your budget and the size of your family. However, most people recommend saving between $1,000 and $2,000. 

4. Schedule Property Inspections 

Even a single storm can cause significant damage. In other cases, smaller storms can cause wearing and tearing, even on the most stable buildings. The initial effects can be minimal and difficult to notice without a professional. Over time, these minor flaws can become major vulnerable areas that can cause expansive damage that will be costly to repair. A property management company can evaluate the building, allowing you to focus on other tasks. 

Property management companies employ experienced inspectors who know which areas are most likely to take damage, including the structure, pipes, windows, and railings. The inspectors will use their connections with local contractors who will repair the damage before the next storm occurs, saving you significant money in the long term.  

While some storms will cause damage, the effects can be minimized through careful preparation. For nearly a century, Hawaiian Properties, Ltd. has provided support to condo board members at affordable rates. This kama‘āina family-owned property management company offers comprehensive property inspections to prevent excessive wearing and tearing. The company also employs staff to streamline day-to-day processes and provide fiscal efficiency. For more information on their services offered throughout Oahu, Kona, and Honolulu, HI, visit their website or call them at (808) 539-9777.