A committee of state officials and media representatives has come up with tentative recommendations to improve communication with the public in the event of an emergency.

The governor's "comprehensive communications review committee" was formed after last month's earthquakes on the Big Island knocked out power across O'ahu, leaving people statewide with very limited access to information.

The islandwide blackout raised a number of issues. Cell phone coverage was spotty. TV stations — with the exception of KITV — were knocked off the air. Some radio stations were broadcasting, but were unable to get timely information. Although The Advertiser was able to use backup power to post online updates, most residents did not have the power to access the Internet.

"Power was the biggest issue. There was no backup," said Lenny Klompus, the governor's senior communications adviser, who led the committee.

The committee has batted around ideas that would improve cell phone coverage, make sure backup generators had adequate fuel, and establish direct communication to media outlets willing to invest in the technology.

Klompus said bringing in all the media was important so that "the state can communicate with everyone, vis a vis, you can communicate with the public."

The formal report won't be completed until mid-December, but it could include proposals such as: