Honolulu, HI – Teh Hawai’i Emergency Management Agency (HIEMA) is strengthening its outreach to partners and stakeholders with the launch of a new quarterly newsletter. The publication, named “Laulima,” debuted in March 2023 and signifies a commitment to cooperative efforts in safeguarding the islands.
The Meaning behind ‘Laulima’
Table of Contents
- 1. The Meaning behind ‘Laulima’
- 2. Why Collaboration Matters in Emergency Management
- 3. Core Values and the Future of HIEMA outreach
- 4. Understanding Emergency Management in Hawai’i
- 5. Frequently Asked Questions About Laulima and HIEMA
- 6. What are the key resources Laulima provides for staying informed about volcanic activity in Hawai’i?
- 7. Guarding Hawai’i: Insights from the Laulima Newsletter on Emergency Preparedness adn Response
- 8. Understanding Hawai’i’s Unique Emergency Landscape
- 9. Key Emergency Threats in Hawai’i
- 10. Building Your Emergency Kit: A Laulima-Inspired Checklist
- 11. Laulima’s focus on Community Resilience
- 12. Real-World Example: the 2018 Kilauea Eruption
- 13. staying Informed: Resources from Laulima and Beyond
“Laulima,” a Hawaiian phrase translating to “to cooperate and work successfully with others,” was purposefully selected by HIEMA Administrator James Barros. This choice underlines the agency’s conviction that effective disaster preparedness and response rely on unified action. Collaboration is paramount when facing both natural calamities and human-caused emergencies.
Why Collaboration Matters in Emergency Management
Effective emergency management requires a network of interconnected entities. This includes local, state, and federal agencies, non-profit organizations, and community groups. Recent events, such as the devastating wildfires on Maui in August 2023, highlighted the critical need for seamless communication and coordinated responses. The Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) consistently emphasizes the importance of whole-community preparedness.
Did You Know? Hawaii‘s unique geographical location makes it especially vulnerable to a wide range of hazards, from hurricanes and tsunamis to volcanic eruptions and wildfires.
Core Values and the Future of HIEMA outreach
The “Laulima” newsletter isn’t merely an information dissemination tool; it’s a tangible representation of HIEMA’s core values. By prioritizing consistent communication and fostering partnerships, the agency aims to enhance the resilience of Hawai’i’s communities. The quarterly distribution intends to keep external stakeholders informed about ongoing initiatives,training opportunities,and critical updates regarding hazard preparedness.
| Key Element | Details |
|---|---|
| Newsletter Name | Laulima |
| Launch Date | March 2023 |
| Meaning of ‘Laulima’ | To cooperate and work successfully with others |
| Frequency | Quarterly |
Pro Tip: Stay informed about local emergency plans and participate in community preparedness drills. Resources are available on the HIEMA website.
This initiative represents a proactive step towards building a more prepared and resilient Hawai’i. By embracing the spirit of “Laulima,” the state aims to minimize the impact of future hazards and safeguard its communities.
What strategies do you think are most effective for fostering collaboration between emergency management agencies and the public? How can communities better prepare for the unique challenges posed by natural disasters?
Understanding Emergency Management in Hawai’i
Hawai’i faces a diverse array of emergency threats. The state’s location makes it susceptible to hurricanes, tsunamis, and volcanic activity. Climate change is exacerbating thes risks, leading to more frequent and intense weather events. This underscores the need for continuous betterment and enhancement in emergency response strategies.
The Hawai’i Emergency Management Agency is dedicated to protecting life and property. HIEMA coordinates statewide hazard mitigation, preparedness, response, and recovery efforts. This includes maintaining warning systems,conducting training exercises,and providing resources to local communities.
Frequently Asked Questions About Laulima and HIEMA
- What is the purpose of the Laulima newsletter? The Laulima newsletter aims to enhance communication and collaboration between HIEMA and its external partners.
- What does ‘Laulima’ mean? ‘Laulima’ is a Hawaiian word that translates to “to cooperate and work successfully with others.”
- Who is James Barros? James Barros is the Administrator of the Hawai’i Emergency Management agency.
- How frequently enough is the Laulima newsletter published? The newsletter is published quarterly.
- Where can I find more information about HIEMA? you can visit the HIEMA website at https://dod.hawaii.gov/hiema/.
- What types of hazards does Hawai’i face? Hawai’i faces hazards such as hurricanes, tsunamis, volcanic eruptions, and wildfires.
- How can I prepare for emergencies in Hawai’i? You can learn about preparedness through HIEMA’s website and participate in community preparedness drills.
Share your thoughts on this initiative and how it impacts your community. We encourage you to leave a comment below and join the discussion!
What are the key resources Laulima provides for staying informed about volcanic activity in Hawai’i?
Understanding Hawai’i’s Unique Emergency Landscape
Hawai’i faces a complex array of potential emergencies, ranging from natural disasters like hurricanes, volcanic eruptions, and earthquakes to man-made incidents. The Laulima newsletter, a key resource for Hawai’i residents, consistently provides vital facts on preparing for and responding to thes threats. This article distills key insights from recent Laulima publications, focusing on actionable steps for individuals and communities. effective disaster preparedness is crucial in an island surroundings where access to outside assistance can be delayed. Understanding Hawai’i emergency management protocols is the first step towards resilience.
Key Emergency Threats in Hawai’i
The Laulima newsletter frequently highlights the following risks:
* Hurricanes & Tropical Storms: Hawai’i is susceptible to hurricanes, though direct hits are relatively rare. Readiness includes securing property, stocking up on supplies, and understanding evacuation routes.The Central Pacific Hurricane Center provides crucial tracking and forecasting.
* Volcanic Eruptions: Kilauea and Mauna Loa are active volcanoes. Laulima provides updates on volcanic activity, gas emissions (vog), and potential hazards like lava flows and ashfall. Volcano preparedness involves knowing evacuation zones and having respiratory protection.
* Earthquakes & Tsunamis: Hawai’i lies within a seismically active zone. Earthquakes can trigger tsunamis, requiring immediate evacuation to higher ground. The Pacific Tsunami Warning Center issues alerts. Tsunami safety drills are essential.
* Wildfires: Dry conditions, notably during summer months, increase wildfire risk. Laulima emphasizes fire prevention measures and evacuation procedures.
* Flooding: Heavy rainfall can lead to flash floods, especially in mountainous areas. Staying informed about weather forecasts and avoiding low-lying areas are vital.
* Civil Emergencies: While less frequent,Hawai’i must also prepare for potential civil emergencies,including hazardous material incidents and active shooter situations.
Building Your Emergency Kit: A Laulima-Inspired Checklist
Laulima consistently stresses the importance of a well-stocked emergency kit. Here’s a breakdown, based on their recommendations:
- Water: One gallon per person per day for at least 14 days.
- Food: Non-perishable food supply for at least 14 days. Consider dietary needs and preferences.
- First Aid Kit: Comprehensive kit with bandages,antiseptic wipes,pain relievers,and any personal medications.First aid training is highly recommended.
- Flashlight & Batteries: Essential for navigating in the dark. Consider a hand-crank flashlight as a backup.
- Radio: Battery-powered or hand-crank NOAA weather radio to receive emergency broadcasts.
- Whistle: To signal for help.
- Dust Mask: To filter contaminated air, especially during volcanic ashfall.
- Moist Towelettes, Garbage Bags & Plastic Ties: For personal sanitation.
- Wrench or Pliers: To turn off utilities.
- Manual can opener: For canned food.
- Local Maps: in case GPS is unavailable.
- Cash: ATMs may not function during emergencies.
- Importent Documents: Copies of identification,insurance policies,and medical records in a waterproof container.
- Pet Supplies: Food, water, and medications for your pets.
Laulima’s focus on Community Resilience
The Laulima newsletter doesn’t just focus on individual preparedness; it emphasizes the importance of community resilience. This includes:
* Neighborhood Watch Programs: Strengthening community bonds and fostering mutual aid.
* Community Emergency Response Teams (CERT): Training volunteers to assist first responders during emergencies. CERT training provides valuable skills in disaster response.
* Knowing Your Neighbors: Checking on vulnerable individuals during emergencies.
* Participating in Emergency Drills: Practicing evacuation procedures and familiarizing yourself with local resources.
Real-World Example: the 2018 Kilauea Eruption
The 2018 Kilauea eruption served as a stark reminder of Hawai’i’s volcanic hazards. Laulima provided continuous updates on lava flow paths, air quality, and evacuation orders. The event highlighted the importance of:
* Heeding Evacuation Orders: Promptly evacuating when instructed by authorities.
* Vog Awareness: Understanding the health risks associated with volcanic smog and taking appropriate precautions.
* Community Support: The outpouring of support from communities across Hawai’i demonstrated the power of collective action.The eruption underscored the need for robust volcanic hazard assessment and mitigation strategies.
staying Informed: Resources from Laulima and Beyond
* Laulima Newsletter: Subscribe at https://dod.hawaii.gov/laulima/
* **Hawai’i Emergency Management Agency (HI-EMA):
