Following a very dry month of April, the British Virgin Islands seems to be
heading into an even drier month of May. A high pressure system, at the
lower levels of the atmosphere, along with dry dusty air from the Sahara Desert
will continue to restrict showers in the BVI causing the weather to be sunny
and hazy.
Residents are being asked to practice water conservation tips as often as
possible.
Turn off taps when not in use and
monitor’s your child/children water usage.
NevNever pour water down the drain when
there may be another use for it. For example, use it to water your plants or
garden.
·
Repair dripping faucets by replacing
washers and check all plumbing for leaks and have them repaired by a plumber.
·
Check your cistern pump
periodically. If the automatic pump turns on and off while water is not being
used, you most likely have a leak.
If you decide to garden consider
native and/or drought-tolerant plants.
Install irrigation devices in your
gardens that are the most water efficient for each use
· Use mulch to retain moisture in the
soil. Mulch also helps control weeds that compete with landscape plants for
water.
Avoid purchasing recreational water
toys that require a constant stream of water.
·
Limit the washing of vehicles as
much as possible.
The drought conditions do not only impact the water supply but can affect
individuals as well. Many persons are already feeling the discomfort. It
is important to limit exertion during high temperature days, drink plenty of
water and take cool showers or baths, and remain indoors or in the shade.
Remember to check on children and elderly or at-risk family, friends or
neighbors regularly.
Persons at risk include outdoor workers and those who work in hot environments
such as firefighters, bakery workers, farmers and construction workers to name
a few. Persons at greater risk include those who are 65 years of age or older,
are overweight, have heart disease or high blood pressure, or take medications
that may be affected by extreme heat.
Avoid exposure to extreme heat, direct sunlight, and high humidity when
possible. When this exposure cannot be avoided, workers should take the
following steps to prevent heat stress:
·
Wear light-colored, loose-fitting,
breathable clothing such as cotton. Avoid non-breathing synthetic clothing
·
Gradually build up to heavy work.
·
Schedule heavy work during the
coolest parts of day.
·
Take more breaks in extreme heat and
humidity. Take breaks in the shade or a cool area when possible.
·
Drink water frequently. Drink enough
water that you never become thirsty. Approximately 1 cup every 15-20 minutes.
·
Avoid alcohol, and drinks with large
amounts of caffeine or sugar.
·
Be aware that protective clothing or
personal protective equipment may increase the risk of heat stress.
·
Monitor your physical condition and
that of your coworkers.
·
And remember to use sun protection
when outdoors – hats, sun block etc. Parents and teachers should pay
particular attention to these measures for children and ensure that they have
adequate protection when outdoors.
