Community preparedness could save lives, minimize damage

The 2018 hurricane season has officially begun and from statements made over the last few days by the Prime Minister and officials of the National Emergency Management Organization (NEMO), increased emphasis is being placed this year on disaster preparedness at the community level.

Colorado State University has predicted 14 main storms, seven hurricanes and three major hurricanes this year, which means that the season is expected to be more active than usual.

Vincentians have in the past tended to be rather complacent in relation to hurricane preparedness, even in the face of predictions like this. However, we hope for a different response this year, given the devastation of our neighbouring Caribbean islands by hurricanes Maria and Irma last year.

The strengthening of communities’ abilities to respond, should a disaster strike, is an excellent development which could result in lives being saved and the minimization of damage to property.

What is needed now is for the members of our communities to come together for the overall good of all who reside within their boundaries.

The best laid plans fail because of poor communication, so successful implementation means that residents of each district need to be proactive. The responsibility for a community’s preparedness cannot be solely borne by the disaster co-ordinator or shelter manager in each area, we all have a role to play. Reach out to community leaders and offer assistance in what ever way possible; make sure family disaster plans are ready and understood by family members; pay attention to advisories from NEMO; take all storm alerts seriously; and heed the advice of professionals trained in the area of emergency management.