Staying Safe After a Hurricane

The passage of a hurricane can disrupt daily life, damage familiar spaces and threaten essential services that support our typical routines, well-being and livelihoods. The period immediately after a hurricane is often hazardous. Fallen power lines, unstable structures, contaminated water and blocked roads can pose serious risks.

By staying alert and following these guidelines, you can help safeguard your household.

Prioritise Your Health and Safety

If you or anyone around you is injured, seek medical care immediately. First-aid stations, clinics, field hospitals and hospitals are equipped to provide the necessary treatment, even during recovery operations. Also, for your safety, avoid wearing open shoes or walking barefoot outdoors. Broken glass, sharp metals and other debris can easily cause injuries.

Stay Clear of Electrical Hazards

Downed power lines are extremely dangerous. Do not touch or attempt to move them. Instead, report them at once to the Jamaica Public Service (JPS), the police, your Municipal Corporation or local government representative. Assume that every wire is live and can electrocute, until otherwise confirmed.

Be Cautious on the Roads

After a hurricane, roads may be slippery, blocked by debris, or structurally weakened. Roads near cliffs, gullies and riverbanks may be unstable or prone to collapse. Drive only when necessary and proceed with extreme caution. Land slippage is also common after a storm has passed.

Keep Away from Disaster Zones

Unless you are part of an authorised emergency response team, avoid entering heavily impacted areas. Crowds can delay rescue operations, block essential access routes and cause additional danger. Vehicle and pedestrian congestion may also slow down the work of entities trying to restore essential services such as electricity and water. Allow emergency workers to do their jobs safely and efficiently.

For additional information, contact:

The Office of Disaster Preparedness and Emergency Management
Address: 2-4 Haining Road, Kingston
Telephone: 876-906-9674
Email: odpem@cwjamaica.com
Website: www.odpem.org.jm
X, Instagram: @odpem
Facebook: ODPEM JA