Time to get ready for hurricane season

They say bad things come in threes. First, the massive flooding on Kauai. Then, a volcanic disaster on Hawaii island. What could be next?

Well, on deck is the 2018 tropical cyclone season, which runs from June to November. While forecasters aren’t predicting the end of times, they expect about three to six tropical cyclones, whose strength and number will depends on El Nino conditions.

As always, it’s best not to tempt fate. Strengthen older houses and maintain at least two weeks worth of emergency supplies. And as recent events have amply demonstrated, it’s a good idea to have an evacuation plan.

Don’t let those graduation balloons get away

Already this year, there have been at least eight power outages on Oahu and one in Maui County, due to metallic balloons. With graduation season now in full force, it’s timely to remind families and friends to keep metallic balloons, as well as streamers and sparkles from “confetti cannons,” away from power lines and other utility equipment.

Make sure the balloons are tied securely to a weighted string or ribbon. But should a metallic balloon get away and ensnared by a power line, don’t try to free it; instead, call the electric company at 1-855-304-1212 (Oahu); 808-871-7777 (Maui); 1-877-871-8461 (Molokai, Lanai); or 808-969-6666 (Hawaii island).