Before the Hurricane – Tips

Being preparation early – it is the habit of most Barbadians to wait until a storm or hurricane warning is announced to hit the supermarket to stock up on necessities. However, disaster preparedness should begin from the beginning of the year. Have large trees around your properties cut, keep drains clear and make sure the roof is stable (not termite infested).

Store water – this is to ensure that your household has a safe and adequate water supply during and after a hurricane. Enough drinking water (at least a 3-day supply) should be stored in clean, non-corrosive tightly covered containers for each family member and pet. These containers should then be stored in a cool, dark location. Water should also be collected in bathtubs and other containers for non-drinking uses (e.g flushing the toilet, washing hands etc.).

Store important documents – ideally in waterproof containers. This is to ensure that in the event of a serious hurricane, you can still access key documents such as insurance policies, bank account information, other financial records etc. While compiling these important documents, make sure insurance policies are up to date.

Visit the ATM – just prior to an impending hurricane, you should be sure to withdraw some money to make “after the hurricane” purchases. Debt and credit card machines may not work immediately after a hurricane as a result of electricity outages, so this tip is very important.

Know Your Shelters – if you live in an area where you may be forced to seek a shelter, ensure you know which ones are in your neighbourhood. This information is very important beforehand. As you become aware of where you will need to go if necessary, pack a bag of key necessities you will need while at the shelter, to make evacuation swift and easy.

Develop an Emergency Communication Plan – this is to ensure that each family member knows their role and what they each need to do in the event of a hurricane. These tasks include turning off utilities, the radio stations that need to be tuned into for updates, and knowledge of the key emergency numbers. Additionally, designate the roles for grabbing the first aid kit, the food, water, important documents etc. in case a hasty evacuation is needed.

Remove any outdoor objects -  All (loose) outdoor objects should be removed from outside in the event of a hurricane warning or watch. These include lawn furniture, toys, garden tools, antennas and satellite dishes.

N.B.: DO NOT stock up the fridge with lots of perishable foods, but rather stock up on a 4-5 day supply of food that does not need refrigeration or cooking.

Additional information for Visitors – It is important that you are aware of your hotel/accommodations’ provisions during a hurricane. Find out what are there evacuation protocols, emergency meeting points and other pertinent information.