It has been saddening to read the news, see the pictures, watch videos, and hear interviews of the tragic devastation that the wildfires took in Maui last week. My heart goes out to everyone who has been affected. It is sad to lose loved ones, no matter what the cause. It is even more sad when loved ones are lost in situations where precipitating events could have been prevented or eliminated. I would like to write something about this tragedy that occurred in Hawaii, but it is difficult to know what to say and still be sensitive about it. I am hesitant to say too much so as not to offend anyone. I know this is a difficult time for many.
Hawaii is a place on my bucket list for my son and I to travel to. I want to see, enjoy, and experience the beauty, people, environment, and culture of Hawaii. My mom and a friend visited Hawaii decades ago and raved about its beauty, as well as its expense. Regardless of the expense, I also want to experience it; you only live once.
But, in thinking about this tragedy, it also brought to mind another trip that my son and I took. Last year, we visited Alaska for the first time – and probably the only time in my life. Alaska is absolutely beautiful, but it is also remote. People who live in Alaska truly must understand that they are living in an area of mostly wilderness that is very remote and is also separated from the rest of our country.
So, when I began to know of the wildfires that were occurring in Maui, it immediately brought to mind Hawaii’s remoteness. Somewhat similar to Alaska – in remote areas – there are relatively few people, few services, and even fewer people to “man” those services. When we visited Alaska last year, my son expressed a love for it, and we had a serious discussion about the realities of Alaska. When you are in the wilderness of Alaska – or in any remote area – you are on your own. And, when you are on your own, it’s great to have your independence, but there is also no one there for you when you need them. That is the harsh reality.
Therefore, safety and wellness are extremely important in any situation. I’m sure we’ve all had those experiences of being ill or injured, and it is no fun not to be in good health and not to be “safe.” My son is an eagle scout and can do lots of “outdoorsy” things that others may find challenging. I’m sure he could survive in a wilderness or remote area for a period of time if needed, but I don’t encourage him – or anyone – to ever put themself at risk doing that.
Thus, it brings Hawaii back to mind. Hawaii is beautiful and amazing, just having viewed it from pictures, videos, and television shows. However, Hawaii is also remote. Again, there are few people. There are few services. And, there are even fewer people to support those services, implement them, and potentially take them seriously when they are needed. A red flag warning was issued and the conditions were ripe for a tragedy, and that is what occurred. Anyone who has ever been out west in our country knows the severe dangers and risks associated with a red flag warning – it is no joke! You must be constantly alert or leave the area entirely in order to be safe.
Certainly, there is always blame to go around in any tragedy. My post is not to point fingers, but to bring attention to the fact that Hawaii is remote. People traveling to or living in Hawaii – or any remote area – are taking a risk – perhaps more of a risk than those living in certain more populated or condensed areas. Living in Hawaii is not like living in Atlanta, Manhattan, Denver, or other city where services and support are at your doorstep. Living in Hawaii is not even similar to living in a rural area in the contiguous 48 states of our country where people may have to drive an hour or two to receive services and support. Multiple hours and even days are required to provide enhanced services and support to remote locations such as Hawaii.
In Hawaii, therefore, needed services and support are simply not as available, nor provided at the same level as what people generally experience in the contiguous 48 states. I realized that during my vacation in Alaska last year due to it being so remote and leaving one with the feeling that “you are on your own, so be extra careful!” When you’re driving on a remote road in an unfamiliar vehicle or hiking in the wilderness of bear country without cell phone reception, you must take ALL precautions necessary or be ready to face the natural consequences. Therefore, people who live in distant, remote areas that are separated from our nation or other areas of “civilization” must understand the risks they take in doing so. This tragedy in Hawaii has been a reflection of that.
Again, my heart goes out to all affected by this tragedy. I wish it had never happened. However, I also hope it is a wake-up call to those who are still there. I know Hawaii is home for many people, and I know what it is like to love your home. However, more support is obviously needed in remote areas. What happened in Hawaii is bad enough, but could have been worse. Grieve, but learn from it. Make whatever changes possible to keep yourselves safe, healthy, and well in this beautiful, distant, most remote state of our country. My thoughts and prayers are with you.
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