Consumers Must Prepare for Hurricane season!

<em>Teri Ann Renee Paisley, Gleaner Online Writer</em>

Hurricane season in the Caribbean lasts from June to November each year.

Although we have not had any serious storm in Jamaica this year, the season is not complete and recently we have seen the development of Tropical storm Chantal.

Storms have wrecked havoc on our infrastructure and although some are worse than others we must prepare for each hurricane season.

According to The Gleaner dated May 31,2013, “The Caribbean Disaster Emergency Response Management Agency (CDEMA) is urging Caribbean people to be prepared for a very active season.”

In fact, according to that same article at least four hurricanes are predicted for this season.

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How can consumers prepare for the hurricane season?

• Make repairs. (If there are roof repairs to be made then use the time before the storm to do so).
• Store clean drinking water.
• Make a supply kit (This can be a first aid kit with basic survival materials,flashlight,batteries)
• Get your Hurricane shutters or some plywood to secure your windows.
• Buy a battery operated radio (so you can stay in tune with the news)
• Buy a battery powered fan (so you can keep cool)
• Have a emergency evacuation plan in case your family have to leave the house they know the common meeting place.
• Buy candles and matches.
• Buy tinned goods.
• Cut down overhanging trees especially those near the roof.
• Listen to all the weather bulletins.

When the weather changes, consumers usually make a mad rush to supermarkets and there is really no need if you are prepared.

Of course, I know it’s hard to find money to buy the things necessary to prepare for a hurricane.

However, it is cheaper to buy them over a period of time and store them instead of trying to buy them all at once. Even if there is not much activity this season, many of the items can still be kept for the next season.

The stored drinking water should be changed every year and it is also necessary to store batteries in a dry place to avoid corrosion

Consumers need to be proactive and not wait until the storm is advancing to make their preparations.

What do you think? Should consumers prepare for the hurricane season? Let me hear from you!!

Tags: hurricane, safety