Multi-Hazard Mitigation Plan: 18. Risk Assessment

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Chapter IS:Risk Assessment A study conducted in 1993 evaluated the seismic risks of fire stations." This study evaluated the structural conditions and non-structural hazards that could disrupt operational emergency services. Typical non-structural hazards include: garage doors that may bind if the support- ing structure experiences significant permanent racking and may consequently prevent fire fighting and rescue equipment from responding to an emergency; poorly anchored propane tanks that may roll over, rupture supply lines, cause uncontrolled releases of propane, and start fires; and unsecured batteries for emergency power generation which can fall, rupture, and cause a loss of power supply for emergency communication equipment. In addition, the desktop and console communications equipment and computers housed in the communications bunker at Hilo Central Fire Station must be secured to prevent falling. Since this equipment functions as the central dispatch and command center, damage to this equipment would jeopardize emergency response throughout the County. The study evaluated the structural conditions of four fire stations in more detail. Structural improvements were found to be necessary for each of these stations. Similar detailed structural evaluations need to be performed for the other stations. Overall, because of the high seismic risk in this County, and the age of the majority of the fire stations, the study rated the emergency preparedness of these essential facilities as poor. Hardening these essential facilities and mitigating non-structural hazards should be a high priority. 18.1.5 Department of Public Works Baseyards The County Department of Public Works carries out an important role during and after emer- gencies. The County Emergency Operations Plan describes the responsibilities of the Depart- ment of Public Works as follows: • Lifeline infrastructure repair and debris clearance • Direct and control overall public works and engineering operations to maximize the sav- ing of life and property and maintenance or restoration of lifeline services and facilities. • Direct and control emergency debris clearance, hazard removal and repair of vital facili- ties. • Isolate damaged sewer mains, disinfect raw sewage spills, restore service on priority ba- sis and decontaminate polluted areas in coordination with the District Health Office. • Assist in providing emergency transportation, emergency power and illumination. • Assist in search and rescue operations in conjunction with debris clearance and other public works functions. • Construct emergency fallout shelters, or improve existing shelters, in accordance with plans for expedient public shelter construction during a period of national emergency. • Evacuation • Provide assistance to the Police Department in establishing roadblocks or other traffic and crowd controls. 88 Wiss,Janney,Elstner Associates,Inc.,June 1993. Potential Seismic Hazards and Emergency Response Pre- paredness of Essential Fire Stations and Hospitals i the County of Hawaii. Prepared for the State of Hawaii Office of Civil Defense and the Hawaii State Earthquake Advisory Board. 18-10 Hawaii County Multi-Hazard Mitigation Plan