Joint Agency Initiative Delivers Flood Safety Education to Schools

Providenciales, Turks and Caicos Islands – Friday, 6 February 2026:  A joint agency initiative was successfully conducted over the course of a week, January 19-23, 2026 to deliver flood safety education to schools in communities that were affected by flooding in Providenciales earlier in the month.  The initiative was led collaboratively by the Department of Disaster Management and Emergencies (DDME) and the Environmental Health Department (EHD) to strengthen student awareness and preparedness for flood safety.
Schools visited during the week were; Enid Capron Primary School, Oseta Jolly Primary School, Elite Highschool and Shining Stars Preparatory School.

During the sessions, DDME provided vital information on what flooding is, its common causes, and the potential dangers it poses. Students were also guided on how to prepare for emergencies, including practical tips on assembling an emergency kit with essential supplies. The team from the EHD presented on the health risks associated with flooding, such as waterborne diseases and environmental hazards. Presentations and speeches emphasized proper hygiene practices before, during and after flood events to reduce the risk of illness and promote overall safety.

Commenting on the week’s events, Bernadya Smith, Public Information and Media Manager for DDME, stated: “Heavy rainfall at the start of the year underscored the importance of proactive education. By equipping students with accurate, practical information, both departments hope to empower persons to make informed decisions, to contribute to safer communities.”                                                                                                                                             “Students responded positively to the presentations and actively engaged in interactive sessions by answering questions and participating in activities. They showed strong interest in the slogan “No playing in flood waters”, and were successfully educated on the environmental dangers of flooding. As a result, students are now better equipped with the knowledge to be proactive, prepared and able to make informed decisions in future flooding events.” Ms. Felicity K. Husband-Patrick, Environmental Health Officer for EHD.

The joint agencies remain committed to ongoing public education efforts and will continue working together and separately to enhance disaster preparedness and health awareness across the Turks and Caicos Islands throughout the year.