Kokua Line
Kokua Line
Question: Last year, our 29-story condominium on Likini Street in Salt Lake installed vehicular security gates at the front of its property. In case of an emergency, I'm afraid that firetrucks or ambulances would not be able to enter the property. Are the gates a safety violation or concern? Emergency condo access
often planned in advanceAnswer: There is no fire code regulation regarding security gates in condos or gated communities, a spokesman for the Honolulu Fire Department said.
However, if you are concerned, you should contact the building manager to find out if arrangements have been made to allow access in the event of an emergency.
Either call the nearest fire station or the Fire Operations Office at 831-7773, the spokesman said. Normally, a pre-emergency plan is arranged and a pass key or card made available to fire personnel for such structures.
Q: At Likelike Elementary School across from Palama Settlement, there is a corrugated metal roof that people park their cars under. But that roof is so flimsy. On a windy day, parts of it fell off. I am afraid a child or someone will get hurt. Can you please ask the school to do something? I'd like this resolved before school starts.
A: The parking structure, which accommodates six vehicles, is very old and there is some deterioration, acknowledged Principal Marilyn Okumura. In the last heavy wind and rain storm several months ago, a section did get loose.
However, "it didn't fly off," she said. "Our custodial staff was able to work it so that we were able to secure it."
For the most part, although parts of it have corroded through, the roof appears structurally sound, she said.
However, she has asked the state Department of Accounting and General Services, which is in charge of repairs and maintenance, to determine whether the roof is structurally sound. Okumura also looked into having Honolulu Community College sheet metal students take the roof on as a project. However, that did not work out because of liability concerns.
At this point, Okumura is awaiting the assessment by DAGS, which should be done before school begins. If there are concerns, the structure probably will be torn down, she said.
If you have further concerns or would like to discuss the situation further, just call Okumura directly at 832-3370.
Mahalo
To the two teenage girls in the pickup truck who stopped to assist in rescuing two dogs running loose on the H-1 freeway near Kaimuki on Wednesday, July 18. Even though one dog was struck by a car and killed, you prevented a certain similar fate for the second dog and agreed to transport both to the humane society. That was a very kind and compassionate deed, even though you seemed uncertain you could handle it. Good for you! Mahalo also to the gentleman in the van who also stopped to help. -- Lady Who Helped
Auwe
What is it with VISA and those negative one-page ads against American Express? Thank goodness American Express shows more class and doesn't retaliate in similar fashion. Auwe to those stores that don't take American Express. -- No Name
Got a question or complaint?
Call 529-4773, fax 529-4750, or write to Kokua Line,
Honolulu Star-Bulletin, 500 Ala Moana Blvd., No. 7-210,
Honolulu 96813. As many as possible will be answered.
Email to kokualine@starbulletin.com