September 16, 2005 - Hurricane Katrina

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The devastating effects of Hurricane Katrina remind us of the critical need to ensure our state is prepared to respond to a disaster.

In Hawai`i, State, federal, and county governments, the military and private sector partners work throughout the year to develop plans and procedures to respond to any disaster.  We also routinely conduct exercises to test and improve these comprehensive plans.

Hawai`i works closely with the Department of Homeland Security, and our state has received more than $70 million in Homeland Security grants.

In addition to statewide preparedness, every resident can take simple steps to ensure their family and businesses are prepared for an emergency.

These include developing a response plan, knowing where the nearest shelter is, and preparing a disaster kit with essential supplies.

It only takes a little of your time today to prepare your family for any potential disaster

To find out more, visit the State Civil Defense Web site at scd.state.hi.us, or check the disaster preparedness pages in the phone book.

Mahalo. This is Governor Linda Lingle.