The Tribune

Police advice

By Corporal Makelle Pinder

DURING this hurricane season in The Bahamas, it is important that adequate preparations are made to minimise loss of life and property.

Remember that hurricane preparation only takes a little time to accomplish; for this reason the Royal Bahamas Police Force National Crime Prevention Office provides safety tips that can assist in preparedness.

Pre-season preparation

• Make sure your home meets building codes for withstanding hurricanes and that it has storm shutters.

• Have proper tools, supplies and a first aid kit.

• Have plenty of batteries and flashlights.

• Always have plenty of non-perishable foods on hand.

• Properly secure important documents such as bank account documents and insurance policy documents.

• You will need to carry cash.

When a Watch or Warning is issued

• Leave low lying areas.

• Protect windows with plywood boards or storm shutters.

• Secure outside objects.

• Make sure you have plenty of fuel and water.

• Have several days supply of food and water for each family member.

• If called to evacuate, do so immediately.

Before the storm

• Be ready to put your plan and preparation into action.

• You will need a battery-powered or self-powered radio to follow the news updates

• Pay attention to local weather reports on radio, television or the internet.

• Have your house boarded up or have storm shutters in place.

• Have plenty of food and water.

• Make sure all your tools, supplies and first aid kit are available for use.

• Have a secure room available.

During the storm

• Stay in a secured room.

• Stay away from windows.

• Do not use the phone or candles.

• Monitor weather.

• Have supplies on hand.

• Remain indoors when the eye moves over your area because the storm will resume shortly.

• You should stay away from the glass doors and windows.

• Keep the curtains and the blinds closed.

• Only use 911 or 919 in case of a true emergency as they will be flood with calls from people who are in danger or injured.

After the storm

• Make sure that all is definitely clear outside and the storm has completely passed before going out.

• Report downed power lines and stay away from them.

• Use stored water and food.

• Be patient. Things will take a while before they get back to normal.

If applied, the safety tips provided can minimise your chances of becoming a victim and a loss of property.

If you need further information about hurricane safety contact the National Emergency Management Agency (NEMA) on (242) 322-6081/5 or fax (242) 326-5456.

And if you see or hear about a crime call the police emergency at ‘919’ or Crime Stoppers at 328-tips (New Providence), 1-300-8476 (Family Islands).