Are you ready for Hurricane Season?

How old were you when Jamaica was hit by the now infamous Hurricane Gilbert in 1988?

Since I am not going to give away my age, let’s just say I remember being very frightened as I thought that the island was going to be forever destroyed.

Of course, the island survived although several sections of the island bore the brunt of heavy wind and rain and it took months for normalcy to return. Since then we have had a number of hurricanes, Ivan, Gustav and Sandy just to name a few.

Hurricane Preparedness for Consumers

I remember times when hurricane warnings were not taken seriously.  Those days are long past as experience has taught us that hurricane warnings are not to be ignored as their aftermath can prove disastrous.

This means that consumers prepare every hurricane season for the eventuality that we will be affected.

The sudden rush to supermarkets whenever there are hurricane warnings can be avoided if you are prepared for hurricane.

The annual hurricane season begins June 1, so consumers must start preparations now as the weather can be unpredictable.

• Hurricane Tips

• Remove any overhanging limbs on the trees on your property.
• Purchase or acquire boards needed to board up windows.
• Restock your first aid kit.
• Start a stockpile of canned products.
• Ensure you have a battery operated flashlight and candles.
• Make sure your roof is secure.

More excellent tips are available on The Gleaner’s website www.go-jamaica.com.  Consumers who do their due diligence and spend the money gradually will find it much easier than those who ignore the season and wait until the actual hurricane comes.

It is also a good idea for consumers to have a hurricane plan.  Some areas which are low lying are simply not safe during a hurricane.  Therefore, home owners need to identify another home that they can go if there is a storm.

This can be a friend or relative’s home which can serve as a shelter during the storm.

So are you prepared for the hurricane season?

Let me hear from you!

Teri Ann Renee Paisley

Gleaner online writer