Vincentians urged to get ready for any emergency

As donations continue to pour in to various organizations in support of the relief efforts for earthquake stricken Haiti, one such organization here is calling for individuals and businesses to make themselves emergency ready.{{more}}

Administrative Officer of St. Vincent and the Grenadines Red Cross Society Ruby Chambers says that there is a need for persons to be educated on what should be done in the event that a disaster strikes this country.

Chambers made this appeal on Thursday, January 21, while receiving donations for Haiti from two schools.

At the Red Cross Headquarters located at the rear of the Ministry of Education compound, students of the Adelphi Secondary School Young Leaders’ group, accompanied by teachers, handed over barrels and boxes of food and clothing.

A cash donation of EC $668.60 was also presented.

The Young Leaders accumulated some of the items through a food sale and through donations from members of the Biabou community.

Also making donations last week were two teachers of the Fair Hall Government School, who handed over more than 175 cans of evaporated milk and cash to the Red Cross, on behalf of the staff, students and parents of the school.

Earlier this week, the Board of Directors of the St. Vincent Cooperative Bank through Accountant Alfred McKenzie, handed over a cheque for EC $5000 to the society.

Other groups and organizations which donated food, clothing and cash over the past week include the Kingstown Preparatory School, the Sandy Bay Secondary School, the Central Leeward Secondary School and the Biabou Fitness Group.

Chambers indicated that apart from these groups and organizations, generous donations were also received from numerous individuals.

She thanked all who donated to the cause, and encouraged others to make contributions in any way they can.

Chambers used the opportunity to call on individuals and organizations to equip themselves with the knowledge of what should be done in the event of a disaster in St. Vincent and the Grenadines.

She indicated that the Red Cross Society, apart from being in the process of recruiting volunteers, is offering courses and training in CPR (Cardio Pulmonary Resuscitation), First Aid and the use of the AED Artificial External Defibrillator.

According to Chambers, these courses are also relevant for day-to-day use at homes and workplaces.