Disaster Preparedness with CBS 1500
A radio collaboration with aio Hawaii keeps Oahu households and neighborhoods informed during emergencies.

In an era where natural disasters are becoming more frequent and severe, reliable information is crucial. At CBS 1500 (KHKA AM), we take our role in community safety seriously. Our recent collaboration with FEMA to unveil our radio station as Hawaii’s first Primary Entry Point (PEP) emergency broadcast facility underscores our commitment to disaster preparedness.
Enhancing Emergency Broadcast Capabilities
Located at Kahauiki Village in Kalihi, our new PEP facility is part of FEMA’s National Public Warning System (NPWS). This state-of-the-art station provides critical information before, during and after emergencies. The facility is designed to continue broadcasting for up to two months, even under severe conditions, through emergency power generation and robust protective measures.
Key Features of the PEP Facility:
- Operational Resilience: Equipped to withstand natural disasters and acts of terrorism.
- Extended Broadcast Capacity: Sheltering capabilities for trained operators ensure continuous operation.
- Comprehensive Coverage: KHKA can reach Oahu residents with critical alerts.
“Radio continues to play a critical role in emergency response,” says Duane Kurisu, chairman of aio Hawaii. “We are honored to partner with FEMA to offer this vital public service to our community.”
Disaster Preparedness Drill
To further strengthen our preparedness, CBS 1500 is conducting a comprehensive disaster preparedness drill. This exercise involves senior emergency management leaders, media personnel, and participants from various organizations. This drill is crucial for maintaining operational readiness and community safety.
Community Engagement and Preparedness
At CBS 1500, we believe in the power of community. Our partnerships with local, state and federal agencies, along with community organizations, ensure that we are well-prepared to convey crucial information during emergencies. This collaboration is particularly timely as the Central Pacific hurricane season began on June 1.
Stay Connected with CBS 1500
In times of disaster, staying connected to trustworthy sources of information is imperative. Tune your radios to CBS 1500 (1500 AM on the radio dial) for the latest updates. With reliable alerts, you can assure the safety and preparedness of your loved ones.
We are proud to be your trusted source of information, helping you navigate the challenges of natural disasters. Stay prepared, stay informed and stay safe with CBS 1500.
As hurricane season ramps up this summer, check out additional emergency resources in our Hawaii Disaster Preparation Guide. Read more here.
Editor’s Note: This article has been slightly modified from the original print version for optimal online reading. To view the full print story, pick up your copy of Hawaii Home + Remodeling at one of our partner locations.