"Nonetheless, since 1992 we did have Hurricane Iniki which resulted in evacuations," said John Cummings, Department of Emergency Management. “So the three things we always promote including our seniors is to have a disaster supplies kit."

The obvious caution is to have enough food, water and clothing for your family for five to seven days.  But things get a bit more complicated with our seniors.

"But for seniors, they should also be looking to add to that prescription medicines, extra eyeglasses, reading glasses, extra hearing aid batteries and also maintaining a list of doctors, contacts, and also friends who can assist you or are able to able help you in case of an emergency like this," said Cummings.

Not all of our seniors are able to rely on close relatives to help them in times of emergency. That's why it's important for them or those close to them to create a support network.

"For our seniors, for our kupuna, one of the things we always recommend is to establish a personal support network," Cummings explained. "But that means that is a group of friends, family members, perhaps folks in the condominium or apartment that can assist you."

And whether it's a single family home or an apartment, for most seniors it's best to find a secure place close to your dwelling and have the essentials on hand.

"Things like your emergency radio, and of course flash light," said Cummings. "Sheltering in place, that's where you would ride out the hurricane itself.  It's really a lot better option than having to re-locate to a shelter if you can do that."