storm watch 2011

JUNE 26, 2011 SUNDAY SUN. 1

STORMWATCH

2011

STORMWATCH

2011

JUNE 26, 2011 20-PAGE FEATURE

JUNE 26, 2011 20-PAGE FEATURE

2. SUNDAY SUN. SPECIAL JUNE 26, 2011

Department of Emergency Management:438-7575Fire Department: 311Queen Elizabeth Hospital: 436-6450Sandy Crest Medical Centre: 419-4911Ambulance Service: 511Barbados Light and Power CompanyLimited: 436-900Barbados Water Authority: 434-4292Police (Emergency): 211

by ANMARIE BAILEY

JUNE 1 marked the beginningof the 2011 Atlantic-basinhurricane season, one that ispredicted to be a-more-active-than-average season.

Earlier in the year, notedhurricane expert William Grayalong Phil Klotzbach predictedthe six-month hurricaneseason would produce 17named storms, nine hurricanes(winds of 74 mph or higher),five of which were expectedto be between Category 3 to 5, with sustained winds of 111 mph or greater.

A second set of predictionsreleased earlier this monthhave stayed in the same vein,calling for:

•Nine hurricanes, asopposed to the average 5.9; 16named storms (average is 9.6);with 80 named storm days,versus the average 49.1 days.

•Thirty-five hurricane daysare predicted; the average is24.5, and five major (Category3-4-5) hurricanes, while theaverage is 2.3.

•Ten major hurricane daysare predicted, versus theaverage 5.0, due mainly“favourable atmospheric andoceanic conditions in thetropical Atlantic (warmer)waters” and a predicted lack

of El Niño conditions this year,meaning La Niña conditionsare expected to prevail.

La Niña conditions tend toreduced wind shear, whichallows more hurricanes todevelop, leading to an aboveactive season.

The scientific-team, headedmore by Klotzbach in recentyears, has been accurate in itspast predictions. Last year theoutlook called for 18 namedstorms, 10 hurricanes and fivemajor hurricanes; 19 namedstorms, 12 hurricanes and fivemajor hurricanes developed.

With this above-averageoutlook, it is imperative thatBarbadians prepare, taking allthe necessary precautions.

As Tropical StormTomas showed last year,weather systems can develop

rapidly, and are unpredictable.While Gray’s forecasts can

only suggest the number of

systems likely, they do notpredict landfall, makingpreparedness crucial.

THE NationalHurricane Center(NHC) has compiledlists of tropical stormnames that have beenin use since 1953.

Initially the listsonly utilised women'snames, but have beenalternating with men'snames since 1979.

According to theNHC, six lists of

names are used inrotation, so the list of2011 hurricane namesis the same as in2005, with a fewexceptions.

Devastatinghurricanes are retiredfrom the list, so thisyear Dennis isreplaced with Don,Katrina withKatia, Rita with

Rina, Stan withSean, and Wilmawith Whitney.

The 2011 AtlanticHurricane names are:

ArleneBretCindyDonEmilyFranklinGertHarvey

IreneJoseKatiaLeeMariaNateOpheliaPhilippeRinaSeanTammyVinceWhitney

The naming of storms

EMERGENCY NUMBERS

LEAVING a trail of destructionin his wake last year, TropicalStorm Tomas unleashed hisfury on Barbados, giving manyBarbadians a sobering realitycheck. (FP)

THIS

20-page

Storm

Watch feature

was compiled by

Senior Writer

Cheryl Harewood.

LAYOUT AND DESIGN:Deputy Business Manager

Lyle Jones and Sub-Editor

Julia S. Haynes.

PICTURES:Rawle Cubard, Nigel Browne

and Carlos Atwell.

ADVERTISING SALES:Advertising Sales Executives Adrian Bowen

and Kelly Johnally.

JUNE 26, 2011 SUNDAY SUN SPECIAL. 3

by THERESA BLACKMAN

“JUNE TOO SOON, July stand by,August a must, September remember,and October all over”.

This popular expression, onceuttered by both children and adults tosignal the arrival of the hurricaneseason, no longer holds true giventoday’s unpredictable climateconditions. With Barbados and therest of the region experiencingincreased hurricane activity andsevere flooding, not to mention otherglobal phenomena, this particularperiod should no longer be takenlightly.

As a result of the devastationcaused by Tropical StormTomas in October last year,Barbadians have been advised “to takehurricane preparation seriously andget ready for any eventuality”.

This strong message has comefrom programme officer at theDepartment of EmergencyManagement (DEM), Simon Alleyne, who stressed thatBarbadians need to take steps to prepare themselves duringthis hurricane season, as this country is prone to be affectedby any type of tropical storm or hurricane.

“The habit of most Barbadians is to wait until June to startto prepare for the season but we at the Department ofEmergency Management don’t want that, as we want personsto have a whole idea of disaster preparedness throughout theyear. We want individuals to assess their home, makearrangements to have large trees on their properties cut, and[also] to try and keep the drains in front of their respectivehomes clear, so as to reduce flooding,” he underlined.

Although Tomas battered the island as a tropical storm, itwent on to wreak havoc in the neighbouring islands of St.Vincent and St. Lucia as a Category 2 hurricane.

According to the DEM officer, despite regular notifications

Barbadians still seemed to be taking the message rather lightly.“Most persons sometimes wait until the last minute to go

to the gas station or to the various supermarkets to buygoods and supplies. Their fridge may already be pretty wellstocked with food and yet they go to the supermarket to buymore food, which most of the time requires refrigeration. Thatalways poses a problem,” he said.

Another common mistake, Alleyne pointed out, was thatindividuals venture outside thinking that once there is a lull inthe storm, or the eye of the storm has passed over, they couldgo outdoors.

“They can lose their lives, or they could be harmed by flyingdebris. During the passing of the eye it becomes calm, butquite suddenly the wind can start to blow hard. Althoughpersons would have heard an “All Clear”, they don’t go outwith caution. For example, they don’t wear proper boots orshoes and, as a result, they can get sick or you may have a

situation with downed power lines that may still be active.They may shock persons, so that is very important to note,”he indicated.

Emphasising that the strength of every home was the roof,Simon noted that its weakness could compromise the wholestructure.

“People need to assess their roofs first of all. One of thebiggest culprits undermining a roof is termites and that’s why....you should see if rafters or parts of the roof are still stableand not termite infested. Persons sometimes used scotch-tapeto put on the windows to stop the glass from shattering. Thebest thing is to have shutters made for your home, preferablyplywood. Once you store these shutters properly they will lastfor every hurricane season.

“Another thing too, is the drains in front of your home.People need to clear the drains at least once a month,especially leading up to the hurricane season so they wouldnot be a build-up of debris. We, at the Department ofEmergency Management advise the public that if a drain is infront of your property or a well is not too far away — clearthe grill of the well to allow the water [free flow]. This simpleact could prevent severe blockage and ultimately flooding,” heemphasised. (BGIS)

4. SUNDAY SUN SPECIAL. JUNE 26, 2011

THE HURRICANE SEASON began on June 1, and ends onNovember 30.

Here are some helpful stepswhich you should take before aHurricane Watch orHurricane Warning isannounced.

During the Hurricane Season:Check and be certain that your

emergency equipment is in goodworking condition. Have enoughsupplies for at least two weeks to amonth.

Obtain and secure materials toprotect your home. Review yourinsurance policy to ensure itprovides adequate insurancecoverage. Check to see if it coverswind and storm damage.

Are your structure and contentssafe? Do you have elderly friends orrelatives who will need to stay withyou during a storm? Keep a list oftheir prescribed medication.

Who shouldevacuate?Residents living in the coastal regions of the island must evacuate. If you reside in the beach area or areas prone to flooding, be ready to evacuate before pre-storm tides and flooding block your exit.

High-risebuildingresidents

If your high-rise apartmentis located in a coastal area,you must evacuate whenordered. High-rise buildingresidents away from coastalareas may be asked toevacuate because ofhurricane winds.

Make advancedarrangements and beprepared to seek refuge onthe lowest floors. Hurricanewinds are stronger at higheraltitudes.

Relocation to another areaIf you expect to evacuate your home in the event of a hurricane, plan inadvance, where you will stay – (whether it will be with friends, relatives,at a hotel or a shelter), how you will get there, and the supplies you willtake.

People with special needsIf a member of your family is bedridden, requires constant medical care, orhas electrical life support equipment within the home, seek medical advicefor special instructions before the storm approaches.

When a hurricanethreatensListen continuously to the radio or television, and pay close attention toofficial announcements from the emergency services. Do not payattention to rumours.

When a Hurricane Watch is announced this means that ahurricane may strike in an area within 24 to 48 hours. When aHurricane Watch is announced, take the following precautionsimmediately.

• Bring in objects which can be blown away. Garbage cans, gardentools, furniture and potted plants should not be left outdoors.

• Anchor objects which cannot be brought inside.

• Do not trim trees when a hurricane is approaching

• Place all valuables and personal documents in waterproofcontainers and store in the highest possible location.

TRIM ALL OVERHANGING trees well in advance of a hurricane. (RC)

(FP)


Category 1 public schoolshelters in St Michael

Grazettes Primary SchoolHarrison CollegeLawrence T. Gay Memorial SchoolLuther Thorne Memorial SchoolSt Leonard’s Boys SchoolSt Matthew’s Primary SchoolSt Stephen’s Primary SchoolBarbados Community CollegeBay Primary SchoolCharles F. Broome Memorial SchoolCombermere SchoolEden Lodge Primary SchoolEllerslie Secondary SchoolThe Garrison Secondary SchoolSpringer Memorial Secondary SchoolUniversity of the West IndiesWestbury Primary SchoolThe St Michael SchoolGeorge Lamming Primary SchoolSt Ambrose Primary SchoolParkinson Memorial Secondary School

Category 1 privately-ownedshelters

Black Rock Seventh Day AdventistChurch

Dalkeith Methodist ChurchEmmanuel Baptist ChurchSt Mary’s Anglican ChurchSt Barnabas Day Care Centre

Category 2 public shelters

Belmont Primary SchoolDeacon’s Primary Primary SchoolGrantley Prescod Memorial SchoolEagle Hall Primary SchoolHindsbury Primary SchoolSt Giles Primary SchoolSt Mary’s Primary SchoolSt Paul’s Primary SchoolWesley Hall Infants SchoolWesley Hall Junior SchoolWilkie Cumberbatch Primary School


Chapman Street Church of GodFairfield Gospel HallGovernment Hill Seventh AdventistChurchHaggatt Hall Wesleyan Holiness ChurchSt Matthew’s Anglican ChurchSt Paul’s Anglican Church Whitehall Methodist Church

St Michael

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COURTESY OF

A HURRICANE is a tropical cyclonein which the maximum average windspeed near the centre or eyeexceeds 74 mph or 119 km/h.

Hurricane winds blow in a largespiral around a relatively calm centreknown as the “eye.” The “eye” isgenerally 20 to 30 miles wide, andthe storm may extend outward 400miles.

As a hurricane approaches, theskies will begin to darken and windswill grow in strength. As a hurricanenears land, it can bring torrentialrains, high winds, and storm surges.

Q: How dohurricanes start?

A: A hurricane starts in either oftwo ways: As a tropical wave – not asea wave – but a wave of tropical air– from the coast of West Africa; or atropical depression.

Some tropical depressions form inthe Caribbean Sea, the Gulf ofMexico or the Atlantic Ocean whenthe right conditions – among themlow pressure and isolatedthunderstorms – come together. Onaverage, there are approximately tentropical depressions in a hurricaneseason.

Q. Do alltropicaldepressionsbecomehurricanes?

A: No, but in an average season,

six of them do.Q: What is a tropical storm?A: That’s what a tropical

depression becomes if the regulatingwind blows steadily at 40 miles perhour (mph) and an eye forms – aroundish patch of calm air aroundwhich the wind circulates. When thathappens, the storm is given a name.

Q: Who givesthem names andwhy?

A: Hurricanes are named to makeit easier to keep track of them.

Weather forecasters in thecountries affected by hurricanessuggest names to the WorldMeteorological Organisation, which

has a committee that picks analphabetical list of 21 names. (Nonames beginning with Q, U, X, Y orZ) are usually used.

Hurricanes have been givennames since 1950. At first,forecasters used the military namesfor letters of the alphabet – Able,Baker, Charlie and so on.

Later, the names of women wereused and still later, men’s andwomen’s names were usedalternatively.

The use of Spanish and Frenchnames came much later.

Q: How does atropical storm

become ahurricane?

A: It speeds up. If wind speedsaround the eyes hits 74 mph, ahurricane is born.

Q: How strong can hurricanesbecome?

A: Hurricanes are measured on ascale – the Saffir-Simpson Scale – ofone to five, depending on theirmaximum sustained wind speed. ACategory One storm has winds of74 to 95 mph a Category Five storm,155 mph or greater.

Q: What is theeye of ahurricane like?

A: The inside of the eye is calmand clear, like a chimney throughwhich air rises, heated by the ocean.

The heat gives the storm theenergy it needs to intensify. Warmocean waters are the fuel that keep ahurricane churning.

The size of the eye fluctuatesfrom 10 to 15 miles across, with thestrongest wind whirling around in abelt about 50 miles wide. Beyondthat, reaching out as far as 400 miles,gale-force winds circulate.

As a hurricane grows, squalls ofrain and wind break off the edgesand move further ahead.

Q: How fastdoes a hurricanemove?

A: Forward speed varies andfluctuates; 10 to 15 mph is typical.

Q:What determines where itgoes?

A: A hurricane’s path is dictatedby what’s going on in the atmospherearound it.

Q: How does ahurricane die?

A: Since a hurricane is fuelled bywarm water, it starts falling apartwhen it comes over cold water – orover land. But even though it is nolonger a hurricane, it can still dump alot of rain and create a lot of havoc.

A single hurricane can last formore than two weeks over openwaters and can run a path across theentire length of the easternseaboard.

August and September are pealmonths during the hurricane season,which lasts from June 1 toNovember 30.


THE EYE ofthe hurricane.

(GP)


Category 1 public schoolshelters in Christ Church

Milton Lynch Primary SchoolSt Christopher Primary SchoolArthur Smith Primary SchoolGordon Walters Primary SchoolChrist Church Girls SchoolChrist Church Foundation School


Cane Vale Seventh Day AdventistChurchChrist Church Parish Church Hall

St. Christopher Anglican Church

Category 2 public schoolshelters

St Lawrence Primary SchoolVauxhall Primary SchoolSt Bartholomew’s Primary School

Category 2 privately ownedshelters

Hawthorn Methodist ChurchSt Matthias Anglican ChurchThe Salvation Army Church(Wotton)

ChristChurch

IN PREPARATION for an expected hurricane strike, make sure you haveenough of everything for at leastfour weeks. You will need to keepsome of these items in airtightcontainers or plastic bags. Somebasic items, not including food andwater might include:

• Clean containers for storingdrinking water: A gallon per personper day for drinking and sanitation isrequired. Have a two-week supplyon hand for each person. Use cleancontainers for storing drinkingwater. Food-grade plastic containersthat have screw caps, such as two-litre pet bottles, are best. Plastic milkjugs, though they can be leaky, willdo in a pinch.

• Gallon-sized freezer bags formaking ice: You'll want to fill themwith water and freeze as many as you can afew days before the storm is expected toarrive.

• Householdbleach, (withoutlemon scent), topurify water.

• Tools: hammerand nails;crowbar;screwdrivers;pliers; a drill(consider battery-powered) withscrewdriver bitsand adapters toinstall bolts; extrafasteners andbolts for shutters;a knife; handsaw.

• Duct tape andmasking tape.

• Flashlight foreach member of the family, with extrabatteries

• Radio or battery-powered TV with extrabatteries

• Fire extinguisher

• Lantern with extra fuel orbatteries/candles

• Matches: Wooden kitchen matches arebest. Keep them dry in a plastic bag or plasticfilm container.

• A charcoal or gas grill with a supply of fuelso you can cook if you are left withoutelectricity or gas. Never use a grill inside.

• Sterno stove, with extra fuel

• Oven mitts, for handling hotcookware.

• Disposable plastic eatingutensils, to help you save water.

• Hand-operated can opener

• Soap

•Toiletries

• Toilet paper. (Keepdry in plastic bags).

• Needle and

thread

• Mosquito repellent

• A first aid kit

• Extra prescription medications, enough fora month.

• Disposable diapers and wipes

• A two-week supply of food for your pets

• Several boxes of garbage bags, with ties, tocollect refuse and to store goods to keepthem dry.

• Large plastic trash cans with sealing lidswork well for the storage of most items. Asalternatives, try duffel bags, camping backpacksor cardboard boxes.

• Rope or heavy cord. Get 100 feet. It canbe useful in many ways; as an indoor

clothesline, for example.

• Tarpaulin, canvas or plasticsheeting. This is good for making

temporary roof repairs ortents.

• Safety razor blades

• Money (most ATMswill not be

operational)

HURRICANETIP

During the hurricane season. try

to keep the gas tank of your vehicle

as full as possible. Do not wait until a

storm or hurricane is approaching to go to the

service station.

A TORCHLIGHT with an adequate supply of batteries, andextra bulbs for lanterns are invaluable during and afterthe hurricane. (FP)

by ANMARIE BAILEY

WITH THE ADVENT of tracking weather systems on-line, we decided to investigate whether this was a good practice to engage in.

The Barbados Meteorological Office, which is the officialweather warning entity for Barbados, Dominica and St Vincentand the Grenadines, does not discourage the public from usingthe Internet to obtain information on approaching weathersystems, but advises not to let online sites be the only mediumfor obtaining weather information.

There are several sites that provide weather information andare sanctioned by the “Met Office”.

Locally there is: www.barbadosweather.org, which is highly recommended, and regionally, there is the CaribbeanInstitute of Meteorology and Hydrology atwww.cimh.edu.bb

For international sites, The Barbados Meteorological Officerecommends the National Hurricane Center atwww.nhc.noaa.gov, or RAMSDIS which is located athttp://rammb.cira.colostate.edu/ramsdis/online/rmtc.asp as another reputable source.

While these sites provide information, interpretation of the data is key.

If the posted information is interpreted correctly, then onepossible benefit would be the ability to make early preparationsto mitigate any likely impacts.

However, there is also the drawback that information can bemisinterpreted, and acting on data that has been misinterpretedmay lead to unnecessary panic.

These sites should not replace the bulletins issued by the “Met Office”.

The public should make every effortsto listen to the radio stations on aregular basis, and to keep up-to-datewith the weather via the nightlyweather programme on television.

In addition, information onpreparation before, during and after thepassage of a weather system can befound at D.E.M’S or CDEMA’S websitesat www.cero.gov.bb orwww.cdema.org respectively.


Category 1 public school shelters

Hilda Skeene Primary SchoolPrincess Margaret Secondary SchoolSt. Mark’s Primary SchoolSt. Philip Primary SchoolReynold Weekes Primary School

Category 1 privately-owned sheltersSix Roads Church of ChristRices Methodist ChurchSix Roads Seventh Day Adventist Church


Bayley’s Primary School

Category 2 privately-owned shelters

St. Mark’s Anglican ChurchSt. Mark’s Church HallSt. Catherine’s Anglican ChurchGemswick Nazarene ChurchRuby Nazarene ChurchFour Square Nazarene Church

HURRCIANE TIP: Do not venture outside during

a storm or hurricane, especiallyif there are strong winds. Roof

tops and various debris areoften blown about abd couldcause tremendous damage.

St PhilipWHILE ONLINE hurricane watch sites can prove useful, they should not replace the bulletins issued bythe Met Office. (GP)


St GeorgeA VITAL COMPONENT of the hurricaneseason is understanding what the variousterms used by the meteorologists mean:

Here’ is a “dictionary” guide:Tropical Disturbance: a tropical

disturbance is the beginning of a hurricane. Ithas no strong winds or closed isobars aroundan area of low pressure containing cloudinessand some precipitation. A tropical disturbancecommonly exists in the tropical trade windsat any time.

Depression: a tropical depression is thenext stage of a developing hurricane. It has atleast one closed isobar that accompanies adrop in pressure in the centre of the storm. Adepression usually has maximum sustainedwinds below 38 miles per hour.

Tropical Storm: this is a weathersystem whose maximum sustained winds liebetween 39 and 73 miles per hour.

Hurricane: as surface pressures continueto drop, strengthening the pressure gradientof the storm, the storm becomes a hurricane.By then the maximum speed of a weathersystem reached or exceeds 74 miles per hour.

Advisory: an advisory is a notice whichnames and describes the present andforecasts the track and intensity of a weathersystem. Advisories are usually issued at sixhourly intervals.

Warning: a warning is actually an alertwhich replaces an advisory when severestorm or hurricane conditions are expectedwithin 24 hours.

Watch: this is issued by themeteorologist when storm or hurricaneconditions are a real possibility.

What they meanwhen they say . . .


Cuthbert Moore Primary School Ellerton Primary SchoolSt. George Primary SchoolSt. Jude’s Primary SchoolSt. Luke’s/Brighton Primary SchoolWorkman’s Primary SchoolBlackman Gollop Primary School

Category 2 privately-owned

shelters

St. George Parish ChurchSt. Luke’s ChurchSt. Jude’s Church Hall


South District Primary School

Saffir System Scale: used by theNational Weather Services in the UnitedStates to give public safety officials anassessment of the potential wind and stormsurge damage from a hurricane. Information isusually made available about 72 hours from

landfall and is revised regularly as newobservations are made.

Scale numbers range from one to five.Category 1 hurricanes with maximum

sustained winds of 74 miles per hour are theleast problematic, whereas Category 5applies to hurricanes with wind speedsexceeding 155 miles per hour.

Small Craft Advisory: this is awarning of winds between 20-30 knots or ofsea conditions which may be hazardous tosmall boats in coastal waters.

NEVER FOOL AROUND in pools

of water which are created as a

result of a hurricane. Debris,

garbage, nails and broken bottles

are often swept along in the waterduring the heavy rains.

HURRICANE TIP:

(RC)

10. SUNDAY SUN. JUNE 26, 2011 JUNE 26, 2011. SUNDAY SUN. 11

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A VERY IMPORTANT component of storm/hurricanepreparedness is ensuring that there’s enough canned food to last at least for a month.

While some may suggest that you consider the first 48hours, there is no telling how much destruction can occur.

In addition to the foods you have already purchased,here is a list of food items which you should have, or fromwhich you can choose:

Condensed milkEvaporated milkCanned fruits andvegetablesNutsWaterSalt-fish (this cankeep long outside of arefrigerator)Dried Fruit CornbeefCanned TunaCanned fruitSnacks (such as nuts, hardened sweet)SugarCanned/bottled drinksSardinesBiscuitsMackerelSaltButter (which can survive outside of the refrigerator)Oats CornflakesLuncheon MeatSpaghettiRiceSnacksCanned salmonCanned ham(The following foods are also worth keeping) :Sweet potatoes

CarrotsIrish potatoesYamEddoes



Good Shepherd Primary SchoolQueen’s CollegeSt. Alban’s Primary SchoolSt. James Secondary SchoolGordon Greenidge Primary

Category 1 privately-owned

sheltersGarden Seventh Day Adventist ChurchOrange Hill Church of God


St. James Primary School St. Silas Primary SchoolWest Terrace Primary School

St James

THOSE of us who experienced Tropical Storm Tomas last year know only too well whatit is like to be without water and electricity for long periods.

During a disaster there may be no electricity or gas for cooking or refrigeration. Potablewater may also be a scarce commodity. That’s why you should always keep water stored.

Here are a few points to remember about food and good nutrition, even in adverseconditions.

• Make it a rule that you eat at least one major meal every day.

• Drink adequate amounts of liquids (water, soup, juices, beverages) to enable your body tofunction properly.

•Varieties may be limited, but calorie intake should be ample in order to meet energy needsand to spare protein to do more important work.

• Always use and replenish “disaster foods” from time to time: date and rotate foods to

keep them fresh and fit for consumption.

• In your disaster planning, experiment by serving yourfamily a “disaster meal” once a month so that you will befamiliar with survival food preparation.

STOCK UP on canned, dry goods, and snacks for thechildren (below). (Pictures by Rawle Culbard.)



All Saints Primary SchoolColeridge Parry School Roland Edwards Primary


Alexandra School


St. Philip-The-Less Church

St Peter

IT’S BETTER to be prepared for a hurricane,than to be caught unaware.

And since your property is mostvulnerable during a hurricane, you must makethe necessary plans to secure it.

Permanent shutters give the bestprotection, but you can also use marineplywood to cover your windows.

Here are some other tips:

•Make everyeffort to secure yourhome. Now is still agood time to installstraps or additionalclips to securelyfasten your roof tothe frame structure.Not only does yourroof stand the chanceof falling off, but if itis galvanise, it can flyin the wind and causedamage to others.

• Keep stormshutters (windows)closed during thehurricane, secureoutdoor objects, orbring them indoors.

• If a storm orhurricane is imminent,be sure to turn offelectricity, especially ifinstructed to do so. Ifunder hurricaneconditions this is notsuggested, keep yourrefrigerator to itscoldest and keep thedoors shut. In case theelectricity goes out,you’ll still be able tokeep the contents coldor frozen for a longerperiod.

• Keep nearby treestrimmed, especially thoseclosest to the roof.

• Keep all importantdocuments in waterproofcontainers.

• Check on your home and auto insurancecoverage.

•Make every effort to cover your furniturewith plastics, if you believe they will be susceptible towater damage.

• Seek to carefully secure your pets and livestock. Ifneed be, contact the National Society for the Prevention ofCruelty to Animals (RSPCA) to have your animals placedthere until the storm/hurricane passes. (If you have to go to acentre, remember that your pets will not be allowed there.

•After a storm, carefully walkaround the outside and check forloose power lines, gas leaks, andstructural damage. If you have anydoubts about safety, have yourresidence inspected by a qualifiedbuilding inspector or structuralengineer before entering.

• The Caribbean DisasterEmergency Response Agency(CDERA) suggests that you developan emergency communication plan.

Make sure that all familymembers know what to do. Teachfamily members how and when toturn off gas, electricity, and water.

Teach children how and when tocall police or the fire departmentand which radio station to tune tofor emergency information. In theevent family members are separatedduring a disaster (a real possibilityduring the day when adults are atwork and children are at school),have a plan for getting back together.

HURRICANETIP: Stock up on

plenty of water fordrinking, washing and

bathing purposes during the

hurricane season.

SECURE ALL PETS and livestock to avoid loss or injuryduring a hurricane or storm. (NB)

CHECK INSURANCE POLICIES to make sure you arecovered for storm or hurricane damage. (CA)

WHEN AN EMERGENCY OCCURS,YOUR DECISIONSARE CRUCIAL.

The tranquility of your home or business comes first beyond anything. RIMCO BARBADOS gives you and your family the reliable power for your tranquility.

We give you the quality and reliability you need, plus services you can count on.

Call us today for more information at 246.418.3600 or visit us at Searles Factory,Christ Church, Barbados

Complete Power Solutions:

The following is an edited version of an article submitted by theGeneral Insurance Association of Barbados.

THE General Insurance Association of Barbados Inc. (GIAB) is aware that Barbadians are very mindful of the recent impacton our lives by Tropical Storm Tomas and hence areguardedly witnessing the increasing prevalence of disastersoccurring all over the world.

The association commends its members for their timelyresponse to the numerous claims made by policyholders in theaftermath of Tomas. Thus far more than 1 500 claims weresettled which accounted for approximately BDS$8 million.

The GIAB applauds its members for the major role theyplay by continuing to offer relevant insurance coverage againsthurricane, storm, earthquake, flood and fire which is easilyaccessible and can be obtained at a reasonable cost.

Having insurance in place on your property (building,contents or vehicle) when a disaster strikes affords peace ofmind to the policyholder as it is one of the best ways ofrecovering financially after experiencing loss or damage to your belongings.

The GIAB is therefore rather concerned that someBarbadians still choose not to protect their belongings withsome form of insurance coverage.

ConcernsDeductible

Based on the numerous queries the association receivedconcerning settlements from policyholders affected byTomas, it seems that a number of policyholders wereunaware of the standard two per cent deductible which appliesto claims on properties caused by a catastrophic peril, forexample hurricane, storm or earthquake.

Claims which fell below the deductible (calculated at 2% ofthe sum insured) prevented policyholders from assessing funds.On the other hand, the 2% deductible had to be applied againstlosses in excess of the deductible.Here is an example:Sum insured on property $250 000(1) Estimated Loss $4 000Deductible 2% of $250 000 = $5 000In this example, the policyholder will be unable to receive asettlement as the claim loss falls below the deductible.

(2) Estimated loss $100 000Deductible 2% of $250 000 = $5 000In this example, the policyholder will receive a payout of $95 000 i.e. ($100 000 less $5 000).

Under insuranceAnother major concern was related to the application of

“average”. This is a stated policy condition and is applied whereproperties are insured for less than their rebuilding cost(replacement value). Claims in this instance are dealt withaccordingly.

Sum insured on property: $250 000Actual value at risk: $500 000Estimated loss: $100 000Application of average: 250 000 (sum insured)x100 000(loss) = $50 000

500 000 (value at risk)

Settlement: $50 000 less $5 000 (2% deductible)Net Payment: $45 000

The GIAB urges all Barbadians and residents to insure theirproperties and at the rebuilding or replacement cost asdisasters are increasing in both frequency and severity. It is forthis reason that persons should not be caught withoutinsurance at any time since disasters remain highlyunpredictable.


Category 1 public school shelters St John Primary School

Category 2 public school sheltersMount Tabor Primary SchoolSt Margaret’s Primary SchoolSociety Primary School

Category 2 privately ownedsheltersCodrington CollegeSt Gabriel Church

St John

WITH ALL THE DANGERS that flying debris and falling trees pose tolife and property it makes sense to adequately insure your hardearned investment against damage. (FP)

JUNE 26, 2011 SUNDAY SUN SPECIAL . 15

Category 1 public school sheltersIgnatius Byer Primary School

St Lucy Primary School

Category 1 privately owned sheltersSt Lucy Parish Church

Pentecostal House of Prayer

Hope Road Church of the Nazarene

Category 2 public school sheltersHalf Moon Fort

Selah Primary School

St Lucy Secondary School

St LucyIT IS EASY for somechildren to be both excitedand afraid at the news thata storm or hurricane willhit their country.One thing is sure, iffamilies are unprepared,children can becomefrightened, panic, andbehave in ways that putthem at risk. Parents needto sit down together andreview what to do in theevent of flooding to staysafe and minimize dangerto their home, belongings,pets, or most importantly,themselves.

Terms and RisksA flash-flood warning

means you should get to higher ground immediately ifyour current surroundings are prone to flooding. Childrenshould also be aware of streams, drainage channels, andareas where sudden floods occur. A flood warning meansflooding will take place at some point. By contrast, a floodwatch or flash-flood watch indicates that flooding ispossible. To stay abreast of the status of rising waters, tunein to the radio.

WalkingChildren should be taught the dangers of crossing

moving water. If they have to walk in water, they shouldwalk where the water is still, and should use a stick tocheck the firmness of the ground ahead.

DrivingIt's very likely that after a flood warning you and your

family will leave the area in your car. Remember that justsix inches of water will reach the bottom of most cars andcan cause your car to stall. One foot of water can floatcars, and two feet of water will carry most away. Askchildren to help remind you to avoid driving throughrushing water during stressful driving moments, and alsoremind them that staying in a car isn't safe if the water isrising fast.

ElectricityChildren should also

know how dangerouscombining electricity andwater is thanks to theenormous warning labelsattached to mostelectrical appliances. If aflood occurs, ensure thatkids know not to touchelectrical equipment ifthey are wet or standingin water. They can beelectrocuted.

In addition, do not allow children to play in water aftera storm or hurricane. It’s dangerous! The water is neverclean, and there may be debris covered by water, whichcan cause damage. Trees may also be weakened by thewater, so children should also never be allowed to playclose to trees following severe flooding, a stormor hurricane.

KEEP CHILDREN away fromdowned power lines. (NB)

FLOODED, THANKS to Tomas’ rains. (NB)


Category 1 public schools sheltersSharon Primary SchoolLester Vaughn Secondary SchoolHillaby/Turner’s Hall Primary School

Category 1 privately owned sheltersClifton Hall Moravian Church

Category 2 public school sheltersHoly Innocent’s Primary SchoolWelches Primary School

St Thomas

CHANCES ARE when a storm or hurricane warning is givenyou may be separated from family members. Make everyeffort before the actual storm or hurricane hits to makecontact, and be sure that you know where your relatives are.Have a plan in place, so you know how to make contact.Now is the time to teach each other on how to use a cellphone, and to make contact.

At home, you will need to put other measures in place.

•Wherever possible, stay indoors.

• Be sure that you have an adequate list of emergencyitems, such as a flashlight, hand-crank radio, and a solarpowered cell phone charger. Charge your phone well inadvance, since storms/hurricanes often result in poweroutages.

• Have enough food in the home for at least five daysemergency kit can sustain your family for at least 72 hoursafter the storm.

• Be sure to make copies of all important familydocuments such as marriage certificates, insurance policies,birth certificates, identification and bank account records.Store them in a tight-fitting waterproof container.

• Keep your ears glued to the radio, which should bebattery operated, so you’ll be able to track the storm’s path;know which areas are being affected, and keep track ofwhat’s happening in the lives of others. They may be relatives,friends or neighbours, whom you may be able to help.

THE LESTER VAUGHAN SCHOOL (left) is but one of three Category 1 publicschool shelters in St Thomas. (FP)

ABOVE RIGHT: If there’s any doubt your house can weather the storm, it isbest to head for a shelter in your district. (RC)

HAVE ENOUGH FOOD In your home to sustain yourfamily for at least five days. (GP)

AS IN THE CASE of residents, businessowners must seek to protect both their officesand employees during the hurricane season.

Staff should be aware of what measuresthey need to take. One way of knowing this isto select suitable members of staff to act asofficers in case of emergency, and to have awritten plan in place for the protection ofplant, equipment and personnel.

The following should also be considered:

• Develop procedures and policies for allphases of hurricane operations:

— Pre-season preparedness;— Hurricane watch;

— Hurricane warning;— After the hurricane. The need to identify and protect vital

records such as accounts receivables,customer records and other personal andadministrative documents must be considered.As in the case of home owners, businessowners should review their insurance policiesto ensure there is adequate coverage.

You must also ask yourself the following:

• Is the facility located in an area prone toflooding?

• Does the insurance package includewind/storm coverage and does theinsurance cover damage to contents,including vital records and officeequipment?

• Is the facility in a high-hazard/evacuationarea?

• Does the package include liabilitycoverage for injury to employees as well aspotential lawsuits from customers?Being properly prepared will mean

safeguarding your business long before June 1of each year. You can actually start this bycompiling an emergency contact list with 24-hour telephone numbers of essentialemployees.

Identify a safe storage level area within thefacility where records can be relocated ifnecessary. This area should be above groundlevel, and away from windows and exterior

walls which may leak.If you are in a one-storey facility, file

cabinets and boxes may be placed on raisedpallets. Consider moving vital records off-site,particularly if the business is in an areavulnerable to storm-surges.

Determine responsibility for maintaining thefacility by ensuring that the following items areaddressed:

• Inventory and repair hurricane shutters

• Patch roof and windows

• Check security and lighting

• Identify lightweight, loose items storedoutside which may blow about in the wind

• Identify emergency power requirementsand determine if a generator is available.

• If the facility must be operational duringa hurricane and a generator is not available,rent or purchase one. This would need tobe tested monthly during the hurricaneseason.

• Determine whether computer supportwill be available for primary/criticalcomputer users who need to remainoperational during a hurricane.

•Verify that communications equipment is

operational.

• Determine the type and amount ofhurricane emergency supplies necessary.These should be clearly marked and storedin a secured area accessible in anemergency.Recommended supplies should include:

• Food and water supplies for staffassigned to the facility during the hurricane.

• An emergency tool kit

• A battery operated radio or television

• One flashlight per person working duringthe hurricane

• Extra batteries for both radio andflashlights

• First aid kits

• Provide employees with hurricanepreparedness information.


HURRICANE TIPREMEMBER to stock up oncanned foods during thehurricane season, as suchsupplies are key to survival aftera storm or hurricane has passed.

Category 1 public schoolshelters

Alleyne Secondary SchoolSt Andrew Primary School


Chalky Mount Primary School

St Andrew

ROLL SHUTTERS not only provide protection all-round against vandals and thieves, but alsofrom flying debris during a storm or hurricane. (FP)

Get discounted shipping rates and complete order tracking from our preferred shipper. Visit Lowes.com/International, order by fax at 704-757-0634, or e-mail [email protected].

© 2011 by Lowe’s®. All rights reserved. Lowe’s and the gable design are registered trademarks of LF, LLC. *See store for details.

Find everyday low prices on hurricane supplies. Lowe’s has the supplies you need to get ready for hurricane season, including portable generators, storm shutters, batteries, fl ashlights and more, all at everyday low prices. If you fi nd a lower price on the same item, we’ll beat it by 10%.* Just visit our store or shop online at Lowes.com/International.

18 SUNDAY SUN SPECIAL. JUNE 26, 2011


St Bernard’s Primary SchoolGrantley Adams Memorial SchoolSt Joseph Primary School

St Joseph

SHOULD IT BECOME necessary for you to go to a

shelter, there are some items which you

should carry. Be sure that you have the

following:

• Flashlights

• Pillows

•Blankets

•Sleeping bags

•Special medication

•If you have a baby, take along baby

diapers, bottle and other baby essentials

•Cots

•Books and toys for small children

Since no meals will be served, you will also

need to travel with food — including canned

meals

The Red Cross Society and St John

Ambulance will provide first aid services, but

will not be equipped to provide hospital care.

NO intoxicating beverage will be permitted

in emergency shelters.

IF you are pregnant, contact your physician

as to his/her recommendations for your health

and safety.

AT LEFT: Remember to take an ice filled cooleralong with you especially if you have medicationsyou need to keep chilled as long as possible. (RC)

FRESH WATER is a preciouscommodity, especially after a devastating stormcompromises supply. (FP)


ONE OF THE worst thingsabout a hurricane is a generalrise in sea level, often referredto as a sea surge.

It begins over the deepocean, as the low pressure andstrong winds around thehurricane’s eye raise the ocean’ssurface much higher than thesurrounding ocean surface,forming a dome of water asmuch as 50 miles across.

As the storm moves into the shallow coastal waters, decreasing water depthtransforms the dome into a storm surge than can rise 20 feet or more abovenormal sea levels and cause massive flooding and destruction along the shorelines.

The rise may come rapidly and produce flash floods in coastal lowlands or maycome in the form of giant waves.

Wind speeds also vary greatly from hurricane to hurricane and within eachstorm. Wind gusts may exceed sustained winds by 25 to 50 per cent. For example,a storm with sustained winds of 200 miles per hour might have gusts from 125-150 miles per hour, and one with 150 miles per hour might have gusts over 200miles per hour.

The time between the first rise in the wind and rain squalls and a return tomoderate winds after the storm is often about 24 hours. But this varies greatlydepending on the size of the hurricane, its forward speed, and how close you are

to the centre.Due to the high waves and rough seas, it is advisable

during a hurricane that you stay clear of the ocean.Furthermore, fishermen are advised if possible, to removetheir boats and take them to safety on land.

If found unsecured in high-risk areas, boats can meet apredictable fate.

THE Department of Emergency Management (DEM) inBarbados is the agency responsible for the National EmergencyManagement System in Barbados. It is not seen simply as thatof rendering “salvation after the storm” but rather toencourage, equip and accustom people in all walks of life towork together for their own preservation. This departmentactivates the community to be prepared to deal with any typeof disaster.

Working with the DEM is the District EmergencyOrganisation (DEO), which operates as the volunteer arm.

The role of the DEO is to organize and co-ordinate theresources of the community to allow for an effective responsein time of crisis. The DEO works with the community todevelop and operationalise disaster prevention and disasterpreparedness programmes to lessen the impact of identifiedhazards such as hurricanes, floods and earthquakes, fires,aircraft and vehicular accidents.

The DEO reaches out to all groups in the community,including churches, service clubs, neighbourhood watches,PTAs, skilled artisans, families, community groups, non-governmental organisations and most importantly theindividuals living in the community. There is also a closeassociation with the government agencies such as the FireService and the Police that operate in the respectivecommunities.

The DEO’s main functions are to provide a forum foreducation and training at the community level, develop amechanism for initial emergency response as well as develop amechanism to facilitate the conduct of damage assessment,needs analysis and relief distribution.

In addition, organisations such as the St John AmbulanceBrigade, Barbados Red Cross Society, Barbados Defence Force,the Royal Barbados Police Force, and the Barbados CoastGuard – to mention a few – all play their part during times ofdisaster.

At the end of the day, each and every individual must playhis or her part during times of national disaster.

Help, in times of disaster

During

a disaster sta

y off

the telephone unless

making necessary

emergency calls.

HURRICANE

TIP:

A RISE IN SEA LEVEL whcih is common during hurricanes and storms, can lead to stormsurges which pose a danger to unsecured boats. (NB)


HERE’S A LIST of things you should do and should not doafter a storm or hurricane:

• Check for leaking gas, sewerage breaks, broken electricallines and building damage

• Keep tuned in to your radio for further advice andinstructions such as – where to go for emergency assistancesuch as housing, clothing and food, and where to go formedical care

• Check for trapped or missing persons, get rescueassistance, notify authorities of missing individuals.

• Check for injuries and provide first aid.

• DO NOT handle live electrical equipment in wet area

• DO NOT use food that has come into contact withflood waters

• DO NOT visit disaster sites as spectators

• DO NOT use water which has not been boiled untilyou’re told it is safe

HURRICANE TIP:

After a hurricane, full

assessments must be

conducted before homes

are repaired or built.

AFTER A MAJOR hurricanestrikes, damages are usuallymajor and widespread. It maytake weeks or even monthsfor essential services such aselectricity, telephone usageand water to becomeavailable.

This means that beforethe hurricane, you must puta crisis management plan inplace for your family. Pleasedo not wait for theauthorities to do so.

Here’s what you canconsider:

WHAT WOULD YOUDO IF . . .

For weeks you arewithout electricity, water ortelephone usage.

For weeks you arewithout water for drinking,cooking, washing, personalhygiene and for your animals

For weeks you arewithout gasoline fortransportation or forcooking.

For weeks you cannotenter your home

Try to imagine your dayto day situation undercircumstances like the aboveand develop a creative planto adopt in the event thatBarbados experiences astorm or hurricane.

A RADIO and adequate first-aid supplies are must-haves during the hurricaneseason.

(FP)

(RC)

storm watch 2011

Documents

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