Island Alert Episode 4 - Preparing Even, For Human Made Emergencies

Join host Max Richardson for part two of his interview with Elton Ushio, Administrator of Kauaʻi Emergency Management Agency (KEMA). In this episode, Elton breaks down KEMA’s emergency response plans for hurricanes, tsunamis, and other disasters. 🚨 Learn how KEMA coordinates with first responders, opens shelters during emergencies, and uses innovative tech to keep Kauaʻi safe. Preparedness is a shared responsibility—find out how you can help protect our island! 🏝️

📌 Timestamps:
0:00 – Intro & Welcome Back 🎬
0:47 – Overview of KEMA’s response plans for hurricanes and tsunamis 🌪️
1:35 – Preparing for hurricane season: checklists, partner coordination, and weather briefings 🗂️
3:30 – Daily coordination calls during storm tracking 📞
4:56 – Deciding when to open shelters and evacuate communities 🏫
7:16 – Responding to surprise flooding events and quick shelter activation 🌧️
10:14 – How KEMA works with police, fire, and EMS 🚔🚒🚑
16:22 – KEMA’s role during COVID-19: A two-year Emergency Operations Center activation 🦠
21:00 – Leveraging technology in disaster response: mapping, satellite tracking, and advanced radios 📡
29:02 – Building an Emergency Management Reserve Corps for long-term sustainability 👩‍🚒👨‍⚕️
35:00 – Message to the people of Kauaʻi: Preparedness starts with YOU! 💪🌺

👉 Watch Part 1 for the first half of this insightful interview.
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