Grassroot Institute's New Brief Offers Hope for Lahaina's Rebuilding Efforts

How Pearl City Residents Can Ensure Their Kūpuna Are Prepared for Disasters

Update Understanding the Impact of Natural Disasters on Elders The tragedy of the 2023 Lahaina wildfires serves as a stark reminder of the vulnerability of our eldest community members. More than two-thirds of the 102 lives lost were individuals over the age of 60, showcasing the urgent need for better disaster preparedness plans tailored for our kūpuna. The lessons learned from this devastating event highlight how important it is for every household, particularly those with elderly residents, to have a clear plan in place during emergencies.In 'Do your kūpuna have a disaster preparedness plan?', the discussion highlights the importance of planning for our elderly community members during disasters, prompting a deeper analysis of what steps can be taken to protect our most vulnerable. Why Having a Disaster Plan is Crucial As the video "Do your kūpuna have a disaster preparedness plan?" explains, chaos can ensue in the wake of a disaster. The government emergency services, while equipped, often become overwhelmed during such events. It is vital that families take the reins of their own safety by creating personalized emergency plans. This means identifying different escape routes, understanding neighborhood geography, and recognizing potential hazards—from wildfires to floods. The message is clear: having a plan can make all the difference. Checking in with Your Neighbors: A Community Approach Emily Brooks notes the importance of community support during emergencies. "People have to take care of each other," she emphasizes, and this rings especially true for our kūpuna. Whether it's ensuring that elderly neighbors have transportation or checking in on them regularly, local residents can build a network of assistance. Being involved in a community means you are not only looking out for your own family but also helping those who might need a little extra help during challenging times. Being Prepared: Know Your Local Risks Part of being prepared also involves understanding the unique risks posed in Pearl City and Hawaii at large. Knowing the local hazards—such as potential tsunami threats or flood zones—can empower residents to take proactive measures before any disaster strikes. It’s helpful to familiarize oneself with local tsunami zones, so in the event of a warning, routes to higher ground are second nature. Last week, during a tsunami warning, the website was overwhelmed, illustrating the need for having alternative communication platforms and methods of information dissemination. Specific Recommendations from the After Action Report Following the wildfires, Maui County released an after-action report that includes 35 recommendations, specifically addressing elder care during emergencies. One significant proposal is to create specialized programs that cater to the unique needs of older adults when disasters occur. James, a local resident, expressed disappointment that more focus wasn’t placed on addressing how to support elders during emergencies, pointing out that they face different challenges, including mobility and medical needs. Encouraging local agencies to strategize around these vulnerabilities will better equip our community’s most at-risk members when disaster strikes. Making a Plan: Steps for Pearl City Residents So, what is the next step for Pearl City families? Begin by having open conversations about disaster preparedness. Discuss what your specific plans are and how each family member can contribute. Establish a communication plan that outlines who to contact and where to meet if evacuation becomes necessary. By fostering a culture of preparedness, residents can instill confidence in their capability to handle emergencies. Finally, remember to share updates with neighbors, keeping communication lines open, especially for those who may need more assistance. In times of disaster, being a community means looking out for each other. As residents of Pearl City, let’s take these lessons to heart and ensure our kūpuna are safeguarded. As a community, we can strengthen our resilience and come together to support those who are most vulnerable in times of need.