Activities to mark Hurricane Awareness Month got under way last Saturday, June 1, with the Department of Emergency Management (DEM) hosting an Open Day at Queen’s Park, Constitution Road, St. Michael.
The activities, which are being held under the theme “Early Warning, Early Action, Saves Lives”, will continue this Sunday, June 9, with a service at the St. Stephen’s Anglican Church, Black Rock, St. Michael, beginning at 8:45 a.m.
Other activities will include Trivia Tuesdays. Every Tuesday throughout the month, there will be a trivia competition with giveaways on the DEM’s social media platforms.
There is also the “Early Warning” Poster Competition, which runs from June 1 to 28. It is open to primary school students in Classes Three and Four. Interested students should submit a poster depicting the theme for the month “Early Warning, Early Action, Saves Lives” to demcontest1@gmail.com.
Judging takes place on Friday, July 5, and prizes will be awarded to the top three winning posters. For further information on the competition, persons may telephone 438-7575.
Director of the DEM, Kerry Hinds, said that throughout the Hurricane Season – June 1 to November 30 – the department will be promoting a culture of safety, preparedness, and readiness.
She underscored that “Early Warning, Early Action, Saves Lives” because it raises awareness about the hazards faced and how persons should prepare. This, she added, helps to reduce personal and property losses experienced during a natural disaster.
Ms. Hinds is urging the public to “be prepared” and to look out for the vulnerable and persons with disabilities in their communities.