KIUC Urges Members to Prepare for Potential Storm

This was the view from the Mayor’s Office in Lihu‘e’s Historic County Building on Sept. 11, 1992 as Hurricane ‘Iniki ripped across Kaua‘i. Make time now to prepare because soon we might face another comparably destructive event. Contributed photo

Kaua‘i Island Utility Cooperative is closely tracking the movements of Hurricanes Erick and Flossie, and has activated its emergency preparedness plan, according to a news release from the electric cooperative.

“Although we are not in a storm watch or warning at this time, our staff is ready to respond should conditions change, and in the event that we experience weather impacts from these storms,” said David Bissell, KIUC’s President and CEO.

KIUC members can prepare themselves for the impacts of storms and possible power outages as follows:

• Protect your appliances and sensitive equipment from power outages and surges that may occur because of bad weather by using surge protectors
• During a storm, turn off and unplug all unnecessary appliances or equipment
• Keep a portable battery-powered radio and flashlights on hand with extra batteries
• In case of loss of power, when the power comes back on and is steady, gradually plug in your appliances

In the event of high winds, objects can come into contact with overhead lines and electrical equipment causing power interruptions. Sometimes during high winds power lines are knocked down. If you see any lines from utility poles on the ground stay at least 30 feet clear, assume that they are dangerous and call 911.

Storm preparedness tips can be found on KIUC’s website: www.kiuc.coop under the “community” tab. General emergency preparedness information can be found on the Kauaʿi Emergency Management Agency’s website: www.kauai.gov/KEMA.