Turks and Caicos, September 13, 2024 – With the summer heat intensifying, the Ministry of Health and Human Services is urging the public to take precautions against heat-related illnesses, which can pose serious health risks. Heat-related illnesses include conditions such as heat stroke, heat exhaustion, heat cramps, and heat rash. Vulnerable populations, such as young children, the elderly, and those with chronic medical conditions, are at increased risk.

Understanding Heat-Related Illnesses:

1. Heat Stroke: A life-threatening condition where the body’s temperature rises above 103°F. Symptoms include confusion, hot and dry skin, rapid pulse, and loss of consciousness.
2. Heat Exhaustion: Symptoms include heavy sweating, weakness, dizziness, nausea, and fainting. It can lead to heat stroke if not addressed promptly.
3. Heat Cramps: Painful muscle spasms usually occurring in the legs or abdomen, often due to heavy sweating and loss of salt and water.
4. Heat Rash: Skin irritation caused by excessive sweating, presenting as red clusters of small blisters.

 Prevention Tips

1. Stay Hydrated: Drink plenty of fluids, especially water. Limit alcohol and caffeine, which can dehydrate you.
2. Stay Cool: Spend time in air-conditioned environments.
3. Dress Appropriately: Wear lightweight, light-coloured, and loose-fitting clothing. Use hats and sunscreen when outdoors.
4. Limit Outdoor Activities: Limit strenuous activities during the hottest parts of the day, typically between 10 a.m. and 4 p.m. Plan outdoor events for the cooler morning or evening hours. Take frequent breaks in the shade or indoors if you must be outside.
5. Check on Vulnerable Individuals: Ensure that family members, friends, and neighbours, especially those who are elderly or have health conditions, are staying cool and hydrated.

If someone shows signs of heat-related illness:

1. Move them to a cooler environment
2. Apply cool, wet cloths to their body or have them take a cool bath.
3. Offer sips of water if they are conscious.
4. Call 911 immediately if you suspect heat stroke.

The Minister of Health and Human Services, Honourable Shaun D. Malcolm, commented, “We want to ensure that everyone stays safe during these extreme heat conditions. By taking simple preventive measures, we can reduce the risk of heat-related illnesses. Our goal is to inform and protect the community, especially our most vulnerable members.”

United Kingdom, September 13, 2024 – A delegation from the Turks and Caicos Islands will visit the UK Parliament for the Good Governance and Public Finance Forum.

This week, delegates from the Turks and Caicos Islands are among 39 Overseas Territories representatives attending the Sixth UK Overseas Territories Forum on Good Governance and Oversight of Public Finance, hosted in the UK Parliament and UK National Audit Office.

The Turks and Caicos Islands’ delegation includes members of the House of Assembly and National Audit Office. Held between 10 – 12 September 2024, the UK Overseas Territories Forum on Good Governance and Oversight of Public Finances is an important event for many parliamentarians, parliamentary officials, and government auditors across Anguilla, Bermuda, British Virgin Islands, Cayman Islands, Falkland Islands, Gibraltar, Montserrat, St Helena, and the Turks and Caicos Islands.

As the flagship annual conference, focused on enhancing good governance and oversight of public finance, the Forum stands as an important opportunity for parliamentarians, officials, and auditors alike to meet and share best practices.

Sarah Dickson OBE, Chief Executive of CPA UK, said: “Over the past eight years, the UK Overseas Territories Project has brought together people from across the Overseas Territories, the UK, and the Crown Dependencies to share good practice and exchange ideas. The Forum in London will be a great opportunity to strengthen the existing networks and partnerships across the Overseas Territories and build new ones.”

Hon. Gordon J. Burton, MHA, Speaker of the House of Assembly, said: “The CPA UK has been an invaluable partner to the House of Assembly for many years by providing training opportunities to members and by conducting post-election seminars through the UKOTP. This seminar is a continuation of that collaboration which strengthens our members ability to carry out their duties as members of the oversight committees of the House.”

The Forum is hosted by the UK Branch of the Commonwealth Parliamentary Association, the UK Government Internal Audit Agency, and the UK National Audit Office.

Since 2016, the three organisations have worked with the authorities in the British Overseas Territories to deliver training, spaces to share knowledge learnt and insights gained, as well as opportunities for professionals to visit their counterparts overseas.

The Caribbean Hotel and Tourism Association (CHTA) has opened registration for the Caribbean Hospitality Industry Exchange Forum (CHIEF 2024). This premier event is set to take place November 18-20, 2024, at the Kovens Conference Center in North Miami.

Under the theme “Keeping it Real – Amplifying Caribbean Tourism through Authenticity, Integration and Immersion”, CHIEF 2024 promises to deliver cutting-edge insights and networking opportunities for hospitality professionals across the region.

Patricia Affonso-Dass, Chair of the CHIEF 2024 Planning Committee, explained that “CHIEF 2024 is more than just a conference; it’s a call to action for the Caribbean hospitality industry.”

“Under our comprehensive theme, we’re focusing on what truly sets our region apart: our authenticity, our people, and our commitment to sustainable tourism. This forum will equip attendees with the knowledge and connections to not just navigate the future but to shape it,” she stated.

CHIEF 2024 will cover a range of critical topics, including:

• Marketing the Authentic Caribbean Experience: Delegates will discover strategies to showcase the Caribbean’s unique cultural heritage, natural beauty, and local experiences. This includes promoting local cuisine, artisans, eco-tourism and community-based experiences.
• Embracing Technology and Innovation: Attendees will explore the latest technological advancements reshaping the hospitality industry. They will learn how AI can improve their offerings to visitors and optimize operations and marketing.
• Boosting Revenue with Proven Strategies: Participants will gain insights into tactics to increase profitability in the competitive Caribbean tourism market. Sessions will feature case studies and discussions of dynamic pricing models and upselling techniques.
• Prioritizing Staff and Guest Well-Being: Delegates will delve into the growing importance of well-being for employees and guests in the hospitality industry. Strategies will be shared to enhance staff satisfaction and retention, integrate wellness programs and create environments that promote relaxation and rejuvenation.

The forum will also feature the return of the popular CHIEF Speed Networking Session, allowing attendees to forge valuable connections in the industry. The full schedule of events is available at https://chtachief.com/schedule-of-events. Members and non-members are invited to register early to take advantage of the Early Bird rate at https://chtachief.com/registration/.

As the Caribbean’s top networking conference, CHIEF provides an unmatched platform for industry leaders to connect and collaborate. With expert-led sessions, an Exchange Hub for showcasing the latest innovations, and the prestigious CHIEF Awards, the event is essential for staying ahead in the hospitality sector.

For more details about CHIEF 2024, including sponsorship and exhibitor opportunities, visit chtachief.com.