Multi-agency push for residents to be hurricane-ready

A senior police officer is warning Barbadians to heed official hurricane alerts as emergency agencies ramp up efforts to boost community readiness.

Police Inspector Roger Babb issued the caution during a hurricane preparedness showcase hosted by the St Philip West District Emergency Organisation (DEO) at Emerald City, Six Roads, on Saturday.

“We are into the hurricane season, and I want to impress upon all Barbadians to take heed of all the warnings and messages that will come out during this season so as to avoid being in an unfortunate situation where they probably lose their life or lose their property,” Babb said.

The showcase brought together several agencies, including the Department of Emergency Management (DEM), Barbados Fire Service, and the Police Service’s marine and drone units, to demonstrate emergency equipment, share preparedness tips, and distribute information to the public.

Chairperson of the St Philip West DEO, Natasha Morgan, said the aim was to reach as many residents as possible and help them understand the need to take responsibility for their own safety.

“We want our homes to be more resilient. Instead of people sitting and waiting on emergency services, we want them to understand the importance of being ready and able to respond to themselves and to others around them.”

Constable Kemar Millar walks a member of the public through the various drone equipment the police use during search and rescue operations.

Emergency personnel showcased a range of response tools and procedures.

Constable Kemar Miller explained how drones are used by the police during search and rescue missions.

The fire service team from St John’s station offered safety advice for hurricane situations, including how to manage electrical outages and safely use generators.

L-R: Constable Kenrick Eversley; Station Sergeant in charge of the Marine Unit, Steven Bowen; and Inspector Roger.

Constable Kenrick Eversley from the Police Marine Unit displayed life-saving and medical response equipment used during water-based emergencies, including oxygen tanks, flare guns, emergency radio beacons, and compact diving gear.

The DEO chairperson said the event was one of several the DEO hopes to hold across the year, thanks to ongoing support from the supermarket and partner agencies.

“It is important to have a multi-agency approach. We all work together… especially when it comes to reaching the vulnerable,” Morgan explained.

“These pop-ups help us make sure residents are getting the tools and information they need before a crisis hits.”

Printed hurricane preparedness guides from the DEM were also available for shoppers to take home.

Members of the public were also given the opportunity to sign up to be volunteers to help in the aftermath of hurricanes.

The DEO continues to encourage every household to maintain a stocked go-bag with key supplies, including water, medication, flashlights, first aid kits, a portable radio, and non-perishable food items to last at least 72 hours. (SM)