Bugging In vs Bugging Out

In an emergency, one of the first decisions you may face is whether to stay where you are (bug in) or leave the area (bug out). Each option has advantages and risks, and the right choice depends on the situation.

For most situations in Hawaiʻi, staying in place is the safest and most practical option. However, there are times when leaving quickly is necessary. Understanding the difference ahead of time allows you to make better decisions when it matters most.

Bugging In (Sheltering in Place)

Bugging in means staying in your home or current location and riding out the emergency. In Hawaiʻi, this is the most common and often safest option.

Your home already contains your food, water, supplies, and tools. Leaving unnecessarily can expose you to additional risks such as traffic, road closures, or limited fuel availability.

When Bugging In Makes Sense

• Hurricanes or severe storms
• Power outages
• Supply chain disruptions
• Flooding in surrounding areas (but not directly threatening your home)
• Public safety advisories

Advantages of Bugging In

• Access to your full supply of food and water
• Familiar and controlled environment
• Reduced exposure to outside risks
• No need to travel or use fuel

Most emergencies in Hawaiʻi are best handled by staying home and using the supplies you have prepared in advance.

Bugging Out (Evacuation)

Bugging out means leaving your home and relocating to a safer area. This may be temporary or longer-term depending on the situation.

Evacuation is typically necessary when staying in place becomes unsafe.

When Bugging Out Is Necessary

• Wildfires approaching your area
• Tsunami warnings requiring evacuation
• Structural damage to your home
• Hazardous material incidents
• Mandatory evacuation orders

Challenges of Bugging Out

• Limited time to prepare
• Traffic congestion and road closures
• Fuel shortages
• Limited access to supplies
• Uncertainty about destination

Because of these challenges, evacuation should be planned in advance—not improvised during an emergency.

Your Go-Bag

If you need to leave quickly, you should have a small, ready-to-go kit often referred to as a go-bag.

• Water and snacks
• Flashlight and batteries
• First aid kit
• Important documents
• Phone charger or battery pack
• Clothing and hygiene items

Planning Ahead

You should always plan for both scenarios—even if you expect to stay home most of the time.

• Know multiple evacuation routes
• Keep your vehicle fueled when possible
• Identify safe locations you can go to
• Have a communication plan for your family