With October's temblor and Japan's recent 8.1-magnitude quake that briefly put Hawai'i on tsunami watch, it's no wonder that people in the Islands are a bit anxious when it comes to the threat of an earthquake — even if it is just a rumor. Earthquakes and tsunamis can't be predicted, and these recent events served as reminders of just how vulnerable we are.

Such anxiety was seen Sunday when a cruel and irresponsible hoax about a pending quake and tsunami forced hundreds to call various organizations for more information, and even sent many residents to stock up on supplies and gas.

Had there been a real threat of a tsunami, sirens would have been sounded as part of an emergency plan. And if there's anything to be learned from Sunday's prank, it's that many in the state need to be informed about what that tsunami plan is.

Had an earthquake occurred overseas, the Pacific Tsumani Warning Center in 'Ewa Beach would have evaluated whether it was strong enough to trigger a tsunami in Hawai'i within three hours before it made an impact on our shores.

Locally, the center is constantly monitoring the state for large earthquakes, which would most likely be generated on the Big Island. Had a large quake occurred there, the center would have 20 to 30 minutes to activate a warning plan before the waves would reach O'ahu.

In both cases, had the center determined that there was a tsunami threat, it would have made the decision in conjunction with state Civil Defense to issue a warning. In addition to the sirens, civil air patrols would have been activated and sent along the coastlines to warn people on beaches, where some sirens cannot be heard. Warnings would have been posted on television and radio, and The Advertiser's Web site, www.honoluluadvertiser .com, would have posted information under "breaking news."

Bad rumors that prey on the public's insecurities are not easily quelled. But we can be prepared — and informed.

For more information, visit www.tsunami.gov.