The traditional dry period officially ends today Friday, April 30, 2010, however, the Office of Disaster Preparedness and Emergency Management (ODPEM) is reminding the public to continue to pay close attention to efforts focused on water conservation, water harvesting and the consumption of safe water.

With the dry period now at an end focus should now be shifted to implementing the necessary measures and preparations for the upcoming 2010 Atlantic Hurricane Season. The ODPEM will be highlighting Hurricane Preparedness Month in May 2010 and will be embarking on a series of activities with an aim to increase public awareness to minimise potential risks this hazard may cause.

Below are a few tips to remember prior to the Hurricane Season:

1. Check thoroughly the roof of your house, hurricane shutters, hooks and latches and repair where necessary.
2. Make sure that galvanized sheeting on the roof of your house is properly fastened.
3. Keep in stock extra plastic bags and sheets of plastic. Plastic is essential to prevent important documents, paintings, equipment, and furniture from getting wet.
4. Keep handy a supply of lumber, plywood, timber, etc. for battening down purposes.
5. Trim trees that touch power lines or hang over the house and other buildings.
6. Make sure that emergency cooking facilities such as coal stoves are in good working condition as these may be necessary.
7. Make sure you have a supply of kerosene and coal. Keep coal dry by wrapping in a plastic bag or other waterproof material.
8. Latch down securely all small buildings in the yard such as outdoor kitchens, pit latrines, tool sheds, barns, etc.
9. Store extra food, especially things that can be eaten without cooking or which need very little preparation. Electricity may be off during a hurricane, leaving you without refrigeration.
10. Place emergency food supply in a waterproof container and store in a closed box, cupboard or trunk.
11. Make sure you have emergency equipment in your home. These include water boots, raincoats, flashlights, batteries, portable radio, kerosene lamps, and matches.
12. Have simple first-aid equipment such as iodine, bandages, eye lotion, etc. at home.

Contact: Kimberley Weller, Information Officer kweller@odpem.org.jm