Govt Outlines Safety Measures for Preparedness Ahead of Tropical Storm Bret
The Minister for National Security, Rayburn Blackmoore, the Office of Disaster Management (ODM), the National Hurricane Centre, and the Meteorological Office have outlined safety measures that Dominicans can apply to stay safe during Tropical Storm Bret and throughout the hurricane season.
Although Tropical Storm Bret was located 990 miles east south east of Dominica and travelling westward at about 21 mp/h (33 km/h) as of Tuesday, the government warned that all Dominicans should be ready in case the storm approaches Dominica and other nation islands in the Lesser Antilles.
While the Met Office and other government agencies continue to monitor the paths of the storm, ODM’s Fitzroy Pascal warned Dominicans to take heed to safety measures and to utilize recommended hurricane shelters in their areas if the storm ever hits the country. He urged people to monitor the news channels and to be very watchful during rainfalls.
Pascal said there are uncertainties when it comes the forecasting the movement and intensity as well as the impacts of tropical storms, but people should be fully prepared by implementing safety measures. He said proactiveness and preparedness are critical for the safety of lives and property during the hurricane season.
“Stay alert during times of heavy rainfall,” he stated. “People who live along waterways, including rivers and ravines, should be vigilant. Be aware of your surrounding during rain events. Be ready to move to a safe area if rising water is observed. Landslides are highly likely as we are coming out of a relatively dry period where grounds may be compromised or developed cracks. Check your emergency kit and ensure it has the necessary supplies, medication, water, mask, and sanitizer, among others.”
Pascal said important documents should be protected in waterproof containers in the event of flooding, and that no one should attempt to cross rivers during high floods. “Avoid areas subject to flash flooding and do not attempt to cross rivers,” he said. “Just six inches of fast-moving water can knock you down and one foot of fast-moving water can sweep your vehicle away.”
Although farmers and fishermen have been warned to watch out for their safety as Storm Bret approaches Dominica, LIAT airline has announced that it is reviewing its flight operations to Dominica, Barbados, St. Lucia, and Martinique in the next few days to safeguard against the approaching tropical storm.
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