Description

 The Disaster Preparedness Initiative is based upon the Japanese concept of Kumiai, meaning neighbor helping neighbor, which refers to the neighborhood association that was deeply rooted in Hawai`i’s plantation era. The Kumiai thrived in a time when people lived simply with very little, and there was a mutual understanding that neighbors helped each other and worked together.  It once filled a variety of social functions, from taking care of a grieving widow, to organizing special events.  Through the Kumiai, a communication network was established to help people stay informed on local politics and issues, and to connect with other Kumiai`s. Today, the idea of the Kumiai exists within various neighborhoods island wide, and is referred to as a community association or organization.

 The HCRC collaborates with Fire Department, Civil Defense and Planning Department, non-profit and community organizations to initiate trainings such as, Community Emergency Response Team (CERT).

 We provide information and resources on disaster preparedness, so people can take care of themselves, their families and their neighborhood in the event of a disaster. 

Background

 In the aftermath of 9/11 when US Citizens were faced with a national security crisis, disaster preparedness became a priority for Hawaii County.  This crisis presented the opportunity for County government to re-assess existing disaster preparation programs, and develop a framework in which to fit these programs with various related resources and collaborating partners.  Under the guidance of the Citizens Corps Council, the HCRC collaborated with other County Departments and Agencies to initiate the Community Emergency Response Team (CERT) Program on Hawaii Island, a program funded by the Federal Emergency Management Agency.  Since 2005, the HCRC has also been implementing several action steps of the Hawai`i County Multi-Hazard Mitigation Plan.  The purpose of this Multi-Hazard Mitigation Plan is to provide a strategy to reduce or eliminate loss of life or property caused by natural hazard events.