Hurricane Expo breezes into the Queen Kaahumanu Center, August 14

File image. Hurricane season in Hawaii runs from June 1 to November 30.

The fourth annual free Maui County Hurricane Expo happens this Saturday, August 14, 2010 from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m.  Featuring free information about hurricane preparedness, available from dozens of agencies at center stage.  Hurricane season in Hawaii runs from June 1 to November 30, however, high wind events can occur at any time of the year. 

Both parents and keiki can learn how to get homes and family members ready for a hurricane.  Different kinds of “go-kits” and first aid kits will be on display, and free raffles will be held for crank flashlight/radios.

Residents are reminded to review their emergency kits and emergency plans at least once a year, to replenish supplies and refresh water and medicines with expiration dates.  Hurricane shelters do not provide food or amenities, so all households should have a “grab-and-go” kit to bring with them to a shelter when evacuation is necessary. 

This year’s Expo features the Maui Chapter of the American Red Cross, which will have a simulated hurricane shelter at center stage.  The Maui County Commission on Persons with Disabilities will be available to discuss disaster planning for people with disabilities.  The Maui Humane Society will share information about pet preparedness.  Those who stop by can also spin a prize wheel to answer a “preparedness question” for a prize they can add to their own emergency kit. 

The Maui County Hurricane Expo is co-sponsored by Maui County Health Volunteers (a Medical Reserve Corps unit), the Emergency Preparedness Branch of the Maui District Health Office, the Pacific Radio Group, and the Maui County Civil Defense Agency.