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We are back this year to remind you to be vigilant as the 2016 Atlantic Hurricane Season has officially begun. While you should have already begun preparations to safeguard you and your family, we thought we’d share this article with you to ensure that you are Hurricane Ready. Hurricanes are strong, life-threatening storms which can cause serious property damage. Being prepared for a hurricane before it is near is the best form of protection.

• Ensure that there is a well-stocked supply of all the necessities. This includes flashlights, batteries, money, first aid supplies. Have enough non-perishable food items (crackers, cereal, ramen noodles, rice & beans, etc.) to last for a few days in case of flooding or blocked roads. If you are running low on medication, ensure that you have them refilled beforehand.
• Ensure that you are adequately insured. Your home should be insured at its current value. Sometimes home renovations/improvements are done but the insurance value is not revised to reflect the increase in value.  Further, consider getting contents insurance for your furniture, appliances etc. If you do, be sure to keep an inventory of these contents.
• Keep copies of personal documents containing important information in a safe but easy to get to location (critical medical information, certificate of titles, passports, birth & death certificates, insurance policies, credit cards, etc.).
• Hurricane force winds can cause branches to break off trees, and even throw down entire trees as well. Therefore it is wise to trim or remove damaged trees and limbs to keep you, your family and your property safe from preventable damage. Storm shutters offer windows the best protection. If this cannot be done, another option is to board up windows with exterior grade plywood, cut to fit and ready to install.
• Turn your refrigerator/freezer to its coldest setting and only open when absolutely necessary. If power is lost, this will help food last longer before going bad. Unplug all small appliances that do not need to be plugged in. Ensure that your vehicle’s tank has enough fuel in case of emergencies.
• Stay updated with what is going on by paying attention to your television/radio often to get the latest weather updates and emergency instructions. Remain alerted for news regarding extended rainfall and consequential flooding even after the storm has ended.

Many of you may be aware of the drought warning issued for several Caribbean countries, including Dominica.  Some of you may be clueless on how to respond to this news. We think it is useful to provide these tips for taking proactive action to allow you and your families to weather the expected dry season.

Before Drought

• Having a cistern installed in your home before things take a drastic turn for the worse is one of the best options to safeguard you and your family during a drought. It works by collecting rain water into large water tanks that can then be used when pipe borne water is no longer in abundance.
• In the event that pipe borne water is not available, water can be stored in large containers, barrels, buckets, pails, etc. within the home as well as outside which can last a very long time. If water is stored outside the home keep the containers away from direct sunlight, as they will deteriorate quicker.
• Ensure that your plumbing is well maintained and that there are no leaks. If a pipe, faucet, or toilet leaks water, correct this as soon as possible. Gallons of water can be wasted if you leave it as is.
• Plant trees and hedges with deep roots that are able to strive well in low moisture soil. Trees with deep root systems help contain the moisture level within the soil. Plants also provide shade to the home, and other plants that may suffer greatly from the heat.

During Drought

The main thing to practice during a drought is water conservation.

• In regards to dishes, fruits or vegetables fill a large bowl or the sink with water and wash rather than running water over them.
• Safeguard yourself from running short of water by collecting your laundry and washing less frequently. However, do not go overboard to the point that you’re stuck with large piles of clothing.
• Cut down on your time spent in the shower to save 3-5 gallons of water per minute. If you prefer baths fill the bathtub halfway to save 10-15 gallons of water.
• Try as much as possible to flush toilets as few times as possible and refrain from flushing trash items such as tissue paper.
• When washing your face or brushing your teeth leave the tap close. Faucets use about 2-3 gallons of water per minute.
• Never send water down the drain when it can be used for something else. Use excess water to feed your plants and water the soil.
• Before drinking water, remember to always boil, add purification tablets or use any other means to ensure that it is safe for consumption.