Hawaii Emergency Management Agency (HI-EMA) emphasized that last week’s severe weather and flooding across the state should serve as a stark reminder that disasters can strike at any time.

The agency encourages all Hawaii citizens to take steps RIGHT NOW to prepare for any emergency and protect your ‘ohana and property.

A first step is to make sure you receive Maui County’s free text-based notifications for the latest updates on natural and human-caused emergencies and disasters.

Link up with the Maui Emergency Management Agency via http://www.co.maui.hi.us/70/Civil-Defense-Agency.

Depending on where you live, you may have just minutes to evacuate due to a tsunami, fire or flooding event.

HI-EMA recommends that you: Plan escape routes — Ensure all family members know where to go and how to get out; Choose a meeting place — Pick a physical location to meet if communication between family members is down; and Establish family communication — Identify a family member who lives out-of-state who everyone can notify when they are safe.

Next, pack a 14-day “Go-Kit” for your family with a change of clothes and sturdy shoes; one gallon of water per person, per day; nonperishable foods; face coverings, gloves and sanitizer; first aid kit; battery- or crank-powered radio; flashlight; batteries; manual can opener; hygiene supplies; whistle; and important documents.

For more information, visit ready.hawaii.gov.

Prepare now — before the next disaster strikes.