TCI: Hurricane Preparedness Month theme: Investing in Mitigation and Preparedness today, for a better tomorrow

#TurksandCaicos, May 12, 2021 – It is not imagined, the UN has confirmed that there are more catastrophic events happening around the world… and while countries may not be able to prevent them… countries can do a better job in anticipating the effects and bracing for the impacts. 

TCI Department of Disaster Management and Emergencies has latched onto that mandate and in announcing plans for hurricane preparedness month, this May, the DDME made it clear that public education, public awareness, training, boosting volunteer numbers, adding shelters and enhancing technology, effectiveness and equipment are key to local readiness as we enter what will be – according to predictions – an above average hurricane season.  

New Deputy Director of the Department of Disaster Management and Emergencies, Terance Walters unveiled the 2021 theme:  Investing in Mitigation and Preparedness today, for a better tomorrow and called upon partners and stakeholders to activate mitigation plans. 

Mitigation he shared is how Turks and Caicos reduces the scope of devastation of any storm event… and everyone has to get involved. 

Desmond Lightbourne, Community Preparedness Manager said while there have already been shelter inspections.  The DDME is looking to add more shelters and entities which believe they can support the programme should contact they office. 

Mr. Lightbourne is also eager to boost volunteer count. 

The month of May is traditionally earmarked for Hurricane Preparedness activities, this year, two contests are launched including a Public Service Announcement competition  and a Poetry Slam competition.

Hurricane Preparedness Month opened on Saturday May 8, 2021 with church service attendance at the Seventh Day Adventist in Blue Hills.