NATIONAL OFFICE OF DISASTER SERVICES

May 24th, 2016 - It’s one week before the start of the 2016 Atlantic hurricane season and residents are being advised to begin finalizing preparations for the season.

Director of the National Office of Disaster Services (NODS) Philmore Mullin says each family and business places among others should have adequate plans in place for disasters.

Mullin is encouraging residents not to wait until there is a threat of a storm or hurricane to take the necessary steps to ensure the safety and welfare of individuals.

These should include having a disaster supplies kit at hand to include non-perishable food items that should last for a week, sufficient drinking water, search light, lamps, children supplies to include food, hygiene and other items, medication, first aid kit, battery operated radio and extra batteries.

Residents are also urged to have shutters in place for homes, remove loose objects from around their premises, prune overhanging branches and store water for general use.

NODS is also appealing to business owners to put plans in place so that businesses can continue to operate in a short period of time after any threat.
The National Office of Disaster Services continues to stress the need for families, business places and others to develop an emergency plan which details what steps should be taken before, during and after an emergency. Each individual should also be aware of what’s in the plan.

The 2016 Atlantic hurricane season, which runs from June to November, is forecast to have about 12 named storms with 5 or 6 becoming hurricanes. Two or three of those are predicted as category 3 or over.