Director of the Department of Emergency Management (DEM), Kerry Hinds, is appealing to residents across Barbados to avoid the abuse of social media during the passage of Tropical Storm Harvey.
Ms. Hinds made this call during a media briefing at the DEM’s Warrens, St. Michael office early this morning to give an update on the system, which is still affecting Barbados.
Acknowledging that social media was very important to the operations of the Emergency Operations Centre, the DEM Director however warned that sending false messages through social media could create unnecessary panic.
She advised persons to get up-to-date information from the DEM’s official website at www.dem.gov.bb or from that of the Barbados Government Information Service.
The tropical storm warning for Barbados was discontinued at 8:00 a.m. However, a flood warning and small craft warning remained in effect for the island, and an all clear had not yet been given.
Ms. Hinds said the National Emergency Operation Centre was activated at 6:30 p.m. on Thursday, August 17, and agencies were on hand to respond to any incidents should they occur.
Meanwhile, residents are also being encouraged to report any incidents of damage to the NEOC by calling 438-7575; the Royal Barbados Police Force at 211; or the Barbados Fire Service at 311.