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Take Steps to Prepare for 2019 Atlantic Hurricane Season Today

Sept. 19, 2017, satellite photo of Hurricane Maria.
Sept. 19, 2017, satellite photo of Hurricane Maria.

Saturday, June 1, marks the official start of the Atlantic hurricane season, which ends on Nov. 30. According to the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration’s Climate Prediction Center, “a near-normal Atlantic hurricane season is most likely this year.” The Government of the Virgin Islands remains committed to ensuring the safety of its residents and visitors during the upcoming 2019 Atlantic hurricane season.

“Despite current predictions, it only takes one storm making landfall to make it a bad year for our territory,” said acting V.I. Territorial Emergency Management Agency Director Daryl Jaschen. “VITEMA is committed to establishing a culture of preparedness throughout the territory. To this end, residents are strongly encouraged to prepare now, rather than later, participate in the upcoming Disaster Preparedness Expos throughout the territory, and find creative ways to prepare your communities for disasters. Share best practices and tips with your family members and neighbors, and always stay informed using credible sources,” said Jaschen.

As the agency tasked with preparing the territory for the threats and risks from natural and man-made hazards, VITEMA advises all residents to begin hurricane preparedness today by taking the following steps:
1. Assemble A Disaster Supply Kit: Your disaster supply kit should be created based on the special needs of your household.
2. Consider the dietary conditions of elderly family members and pets.
3. Include non-perishable food and water for each person for at least ten days.
4. Be sure to include a battery-powered radio, cellphone chargers, flashlights, extra batteries, cash, first aid supplies, medications, personal hygiene items, baby supplies and copies of your critical information if you need to evacuate.
5. Critical documents such as birth certificates, social security cards, deeds, and home and flood insurance policies should be stored in a water-tight container.

Communicate:
A. Make an Emergency Communication Plan and ensure all household members, including children and elderly household members, are aware of the plan.
B. Talk with your family about what to do if a hurricane strikes.
C. Identify off-island contacts and plan to text, rather than call if a hurricane strikes.
D. Practice your communication plan by going through steps you will take if there is an emergency.

Prepare Your Home:
a. Review home and flood insurance policies to ensure you are properly insured; take photos of your property.
b. Trim or remove damaged trees and limbs to keep you and your property safe.
c. Secure loose rain gutters and downspouts and clear any clogged areas or debris to prevent water damage to your property.
d. Conduct roof inspections and repairs, ensure screws and straps are fastened tightly.
e. Purchase or conduct maintenance on your portable generator.
f. Always ensure fuel for your generator is stored in an ANSI-approved container in a cool, well-ventilated place.

Register for Emergency Alerts and Notifications: Stay informed about weather systems that may impact the territory using credible sources of information. To get real-time emergency alerts delivered to you via text message, email or via landline, sign up for Alert VI today by visiting www.vitema.vi.gov.

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