The projected path of Hurricane Irma is still uncertain. However, the chance of it having an impact on the Federation of St. Kitts & Nevis is increasing. Hurricane Irma is expected to reach the Lesser Antilles late Tuesday or early Wednesday based on its position (17.7N latitude and speed (115 mph) 11:00 am on Sunday morning.
When preparing for Hurricane Irma Be Sure To Do the Following:
- Stock up on your emergency supplies including: battery-powered radio, flashlight, extra batteries, plastic bag (including garbage and zip-lock/sealable bags), raincoat, blankets, first-aid items and personal care products.
- Stock 3 -5 days' supply of food that does not require cooking or refrigeration including baby food & formula. Breast-fed infants should continue breastfeeding.
- Stock 3-5 days' supply of drinking water and enough water for food preparation, bathing, brushing teeth and dishwashing (approximately 4-5 gallons for each member of the family). Remember that household pets and domesticated animals must also be hydrated.
- Stock two weeks to one month's supply of all regular medications for conditions like diabetes, hypertension, heart and other chronic diseases.
- Secure all important documents like passport, driver's licence, visa, birth certificate and immunization record in sealed plastic containers.
During Hurricane Irma Be Sure To Do the Following:
- Remain as calm as possible because this will ensure that you act wisely if an emergency situation arises
- Listen to your radio and keep updated about the latest information about the storm.
- Do not go outside unless it is absolutely necessary, going outside puts you at risk of being hit by flying objects. Children must remain inside; going outside puts a child in danger of being blown away.
Immediately after the Hurricane Be Sure To Do the Following:
- Seek urgent medical care at the nearest hospital (J N F General Hospital, Alexandra Hospital, Pogson Hospital & Mary Charles Hospital) or at the nearest Health Centre, for persons injured in the storm or for those who are ill.
- Only use safe water for drinking, cooking & personal hygiene. Safe water means boiled, bottled or treated water. Water should be stored in sealed containers.
- Throw away all perishable foods like meat, poultry, fish, eggs and 'left-overs' which were stored above 40 degrees Fahrenheit (un-refrigerated) for two hours or more. Throw away food with an unusual odour, colour or texture.
- Eat only safe food after the hurricane.
- Wash your hands, especially before preparing food, before eating, after using the toilet, after cleaning or handling pets. Wash your hands, dishes and utensils used for preparing and serving food with safe water.
- Do not go outside barefooted; avoid wearing open shoes and watch out for broken glass.
- Do not touch loose or dangling electrical wires. Report these to the nearest police station or to St. Kitts Electricity Company (SKELEC).
All are advised to take the necessary precautions, prepare for Hurricane Irma and help your neighbour wherever possible. May God bless us all.
Sunday, September 3, 2017
Office of the Chief Medical Officer (CMO)
Ministry of Health
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