As part of this year’s hurricane preparedness efforts, heads of departments and representatives in the Ministry of Health convened a meeting aimed at discussing the emergency response plans for the hurricane season.
The hurricane season commenced on June 1st and will continue until November 30, 2020.
Health Disaster Coordinator Dr Glensford Joseph spoke on the objective of the meeting.
“Participants had the opportunity to review, revise and update the disaster plan with the multi-hazard approach while being reminded of the Covid-19 pandemic. It is important that the Department of Health and Wellness be prepared at all times and at all levels for the management of emergencies and disasters.”
Dr Joseph also alerted Saint Lucians to always be in a state of readiness and ensure they have a family emergency plan and an emergency kit.
“The Ministry encourages persons to evaluate their family preparedness plan, especially as it relates to ensuring that persons who have certain medical conditions with need for long term treatment have at least one-month supply of their medication. It is also important for family members to store their medication and medical records in waterproof containers. In addition, it is important while you prepare your emergency response bag, to have in it a first aid kit, also to have hand sanitizers, face covers and masks as it relates to the Covid-19 pandemic.”
The hurricane season is anticipated to be busy with approximately 13 to 19 named storms with 6-9 likely becoming hurricanes and 3-6 becoming major hurricanes.