Residents of Hawaii are being asked for their take on how the government can help mitigate, or prevent, natural disasters. It’s part of an emergency preparedness plan revision:
“The multi-hazard plan identifies disasters that may impact the residents of Oahu, such as flash flooding, high winds, tsunami, hurricanes, etc.,” said Melvin Kaku, director for the Department of Emergency Management in a news release. “We have developed an online survey form that residents can quickly complete and submit via our Web site to give them a voice in the planning process.”
There are pros and cons to this approach. On the one hand, the government might get some really good suggestions on how to prepare for a disaster, or to minimize casualties and/or property damage in the event of one. On the other hand, how exactly do they plan to prevent a tsunami or any other potential disaster that could hit Hawaii?
Government agencies can plan until they’re blue in the face, but what it really comes down to is how prepared individuals, families, churches and neighborhoods are for these events. It’s impossible for local, state or federal agencies to prepare for every eventuality. The best plan of action is to get your own house in order, by storing safe drinking water, non-perishable food and other emergency supplies. You can’t prevent major weather-related disasters, but you can do your part to be prepared for them.