Salomon announces ODMP
theme for hurricane season
PHILIPSBURG--The theme chosen by the Office of Disaster Management & Preparedness (ODMP) comes this year in the form of a question: “How have you prepared yourself for the hurricane season?”
“There is no substitute for individual preparedness when it comes to the safety of individuals and their families. Indeed we have to ask ourselves, ‘how you have prepared yourself and your family for this hurricane season?’” the Government Information Services (GIS) quoted Disaster Coordinator Winston Salomon as saying.
He continued: “The very first response to any hurricane lies with each individual and each family and each business which is going to experience a hurricane strike. It’s about planning and preparation before the storm. Not a day before, but at the beginning of every season, you should have everything in place. If you don’t, do so now.”
He said preparedness is a personal responsibility and not just a government matter. “Individuals and families should prepare emergency supply kits with food, water, battery-operated radios and medicines. Make sure your home has been checked to see if any necessary repairs are needed and that your storm shutters are functioning properly,” he advised.
Salomon continued: “Families should also make emergency plans that include how and where they would evacuate in case this became necessary. If you have done what you need to do to make sure you are well-equipped and prepared to deal with a hurricane, we have done our job.” The 2007 hurricane season officially started June 1 and will end November 30.
