HECO: Prepare for stormy weather, review emergency plans, stock up on supplies, watch forecasts

Hawaiian Electric is urging customers across Hawaiʻi, including Maui County, to prepare for a storm forecasters say could affect the islands as early as Saturday.

The utility asked customers to review their emergency plans, stock up on supplies and monitor weather updates closely as the storm approaches, according to a Hawaiian Electric announcement.

Preparation resources

Hawaiian Electric has posted preparation and safety tips at hawaiianelectric.com/stormcenter. The company also offers a free Handbook for Emergency Preparedness, available for download at hawaiianelectric.com/prepare. The handbook is published in English, Cantonese, Ilocano, Korean and Vietnamese, along with a version written for children, the company said.

Storm readiness efforts

Hawaiian Electric said it trains employees year-round to respond safely and quickly to storms and other emergencies, and coordinates with federal, state and local agencies on response efforts.

The company also said it works throughout the year to strengthen its infrastructure by managing vegetation near power lines, inspecting and upgrading poles, power lines, transformers and other equipment, and maintaining its generating units.

Safety precautions

Hawaiian Electric said safety remains its top priority and encouraged customers to take several precautions ahead of the storm:

• Test emergency equipment such as flashlights, generators, battery-operated or hand-crank radios, light sticks and lanterns, and purchase extra batteries.
• Households with residents who depend on electrically powered medical equipment should check backup power options and plan an evacuation route in advance. Those who must go to a hospital or shelter should bring medical equipment and medications with them.
• Anyone using a ladder to prepare a home should note the location of nearby power lines beforehand and keep ladders, scaffolding and tools at least 10 feet away from power lines. Before lowering a TV antenna or satellite dish, residents should turn off and unplug the television.
• Portable generators should be placed in a well-ventilated area outside the home, and owners should follow the manufacturer’s instructions carefully.

Staying informed

Hawaiian Electric said it will share power restoration updates through news media and several mobile-friendly channels, including its website at hawaiianelectric.com, its mobile app, and social media accounts on Twitter/X (@HwnElectric, @mauielectric and @hielectriclight) and Facebook at facebook.com/HawaiianElectric. The mobile app is available as a free download through the Apple App Store and Google Play.