The Department
of Disaster Management (DDM) is
tracking the progress of Tropical Storm Danny and encouraging residents of the
British Virgin Islands to engage in preparedness measures.
The system is currently more
than 1000 miles south-east of the British Virgin Islands and is moving towards
the west. Tropical Storm Danny is expected to become a hurricane by Friday.
Although Danny’s path in
relation to the BVI is still a bit uncertain, the DDM cautions residents to be
prepared.
Deputy Director of the DDM,
Ms. Evangeline Inniss said, “The department has over the years shared a wealth
of preparedness tips and we continue to do so via various platforms including
our website, social media and radio. We encourage all residents to take heed.
We are also working collaboratively with the telecommunications companies to
ensure that our updates reach a wider cross section of the population.”
Sharing some tips on
hurricane preparedness, Ms. Inniss said, “We are in the active part of the
hurricane season but there are steps that can be taken now such as cutting
overhanging branches, clearing blocked drains, checking insurance coverage,
storing valuable documents in waterproof containers and stocking up on water, canned
goods and medication.”
The Deputy
Director also underscored the importance of taking proactive measures saying.
“Being proactive means we are aware of the risks we face and are knowledgeable
about the actions required to reduce that risk which in turn can help to
minimise the extent to which we are impacted and the duration of our recovery
time. We should all be striving towards an improved level of resilience,’ she
noted.
The DDM is continuing to
monitor the development and progress of Tropical Storm Danny and will continue
to provide updates as they become available. Residents are encouraged to visit
the DDM website at www.bviddm.com and subscribe for updates,
visit our Facebook page at www.facebook.com/bvi.ddm or follow us on Twitter at www.twitter.com/BVIDDM.
