NATIONAL OFFICE OF DISASTER SERVICES

Hurricane Danny is approaching Antigua and Barbuda and the surrounding islands it is forecast to become stronger over the next couple of days.  The National Office of Disaster Services wishes to advise the general public that based on the forecasted path, this system could pass in close proximity to or have a direct impact on the twin island state.  

We are therefore advising the general public that they should monitor the information coming out of the Meteorological Office and be in a state of readiness to act on directives from the National Office of Disaster Services.  Those who live in low-lying areas and specifically those with a history of flooding are asked to pay special attention to any information with regards to possibility of flooding.

We also wish to advise the general public that this would be a good time to stock up on medication and other special needs items, to store water for drinking and hygiene purposes, to check your first-aid kits and emergency supplies and make sure they are intact and properly stocked.  Also, please take those steps necessary over the next couple of days to remove loose objects and to trim tress that are likely to become or create a problem, and to store these trimmings safely and not to put out for collection until after the event.

Special note should be taken by those with dead or dying coconut and palm trees that are in close proximity to buildings that could pose an elevated risk to property. Those persons with tree limbs threatening Antigua Public Utilities Authority (APUA) lines, you are advised to contact APUA as early as possible. Do not attempt to cut these down.