Disaster Preparedness Month

June signals the beginning of hurricane season in Jamaica, making it the perfect time to recognize Disaster Preparedness Month. As the threat of hurricanes approaches, it is important to be as prepared as possible for the worst.

The Office of Disaster Preparedness and Emergency Management (ODPEM) uses this time to remind all Jamaicans to check their supplies and be ready in case of an emergency. As an island, Jamaica is vulnerable to hurricanes, but that does not mean we cannot take precautions to reduce their impact and minimize damage.

Last year, we saw first hand how devastating the effects of a hurricane can be when Hurricane Melissa hit the island. Dozens of people lost their lives and thousands of people lost their homes. It left many families food insecure as stores and farms were destroyed making it difficult to feed everyone. Churches and schools were damaged leaving places that should be safe no longer available for families to escape too. Even now, many are still faced with the damage and are struggling to rebuild, putting into perspective why Disaster Preparedness Month is so important. 

You might be asking, what can I do to prepare myself? The Office of Disaster Preparedness and Emergency Management (ODPEM, n.d.) lists many tasks that you can do at home to prepare for a hurricane.

• Create a family emergency plan - It is important for each member of your family to know what to do or where to go in the case of an emergency

• Identify your evacuation routes

• Check emergency items - Replace batteries in your flashlights, radios, etc.

• Check your roof and shutters -Do you notice any holes? Do the latches work properly?

• Refill your first aid kit

• Stock up on nonperishable food and water - Store this in a waterproof container

• Trim trees that hang over powerlines or your house

• Keep handy a supply of lumber or plywood for battening down purposes

• Stock up on kerosene, coal, and flashlights - You may lose electricity. It is important to have a way to cook food and a source of light in case your electricity is out for an extended period of time. 

  
  

Are you wanting more education on how to be prepared? ODPEM offers training through their website.

If you wish to contribute to those still struggling to rebuild from Hurricane Melissa, please consider donating here to our Hurricane Melissa Relief Fund. 

Reference:

 Office of Disaster Preparedness and Emergency Management. (n.d.). Hurricane season preparedness tips. https://www.odpem.org.jm/hurricane-season-preparedness-tips/