Hurricane season starts today

Aloha,

We work year-round to improve the resilience of the electric system and provide you with reliable service. But no electric grid is stormproof—power outages can happen. The Central Pacific hurricane season starts today, and Hawaiian Electric wants your family to be safe and ready, with emergency plans in place.

Hawaiian Electric crews work year-round to harden the company’s five island grids so we are better able to withstand the effects of powerful storms. A major focus of our efforts to improve resilience involves reinforcing poles, lines, and other equipment. Read more about how Hawaiian Electric hardens the electrical grid with equipment upgrades, tree trimming and more.

To best prepare, check out the safety planning video above, and please view or download our Handbook for Emergency Preparedness.

Storm season safety tips

• Gather emergency supplies, such as a battery-powered radio, flashlights, lanterns and batteries. Be prepared to monitor communications over emergency broadcast radio stations. For a complete list, see our Quick Tips & Checklist.
• Store enough water, non-perishable food, medicine and personal hygiene supplies for your family members and pets to last at least 14 days.
• Turn off and unplug all unnecessary electric appliances and equipment during a storm or a power outage. When power comes back and is stable, plug in the equipment one at a time.
• Shut off your electricity at the main breaker or switch if you need to evacuate.
• Consider having a backup generator if you are dependent on an electrically powered life support system. Or, make plans to go to an alternate location where electricity will be available. Be prepared to take your medical equipment and medications with you.
• If your business or residence is equipped with a backup generator, learn how to properly operate the device to avoid causing damage or injury.
• Prepare a list of emergency contacts including phone numbers for insurance agents, vendors, physicians, or any other important individuals.
• If you see a downed power line, assume it is energized and dangerous. Stay away from downed power lines – at least 30 feet or more (at least two car lengths).

We hope this information will help you and your family stay safe and prepared in case of an emergency.