Health-related Tips to Help Prepare for Tropical Storm BERYL
The center of Tropical Storm BERYL is gradually approaching the Leeward Islands and the Federation of St. Kitts & Nevis is expected to get rain late Sunday, July 8, 2018 or Monday, July 9, 2018, based on its present position at 11:00 am: 12.10 N latitude and 51.1 0 W longitude (about 852 Miles ESE of St. Kitts & Nevis) and present speed (14 mph).1 Tropical Storm BERYL currently has maximum sustained winds of 65 mph and is expected to maintain a path south of the Leeward Islands.
When preparing for Tropical Storm BERYL Be Sure To Do the Following:
1. Stock up on your emergency supplies including: battery-powered radio, flashlight, extra batteries, plastic bags (including garbage and zip-lock or sealable bags), raincoat, blankets, first-aid items and personal care products (soap, toothpaste, pads & diapers).
2. Stock at least 3 -5 days’ supply of food that does not require refrigeration including canned foods, baby food & formula. Breast-fed infants should continue breastfeeding.
3. Stock at least 3-5 days’ supply of drinking water and enough water for food preparation,
bathing and brushing teeth. This approximates to 4-5 gallons for each member of the
family. Remember that household pets and domesticated animals must also be hydrated.
4. Stock one month’s supply of all regular medications for conditions like asthma,
diabetes, hypertension, heart and other chronic diseases.
5. Secure all important documents like passport, driver’s licence, visa, birth certificate and
immunization record in sealed plastic containers.
1 The coordinates of St. Kitts and Nevis are approximately: 17.36 N latitude and 62.78W longitude People First Quality Always
During Tropical Storm BERYL Be Sure To Do the Following:
1. Remain as calm as possible because this will ensure that you act wisely if an emergency situation arises.
2. Listen to your radio and keep updated about the latest information about the storm.
3. 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 Tropical Storm BERYL Be Sure To Do the Following:
1. Seek urgent medical care at the nearest hospital (J N F General Hospital, Alexandra Hospital, Pogson Hospital & Mary Charles Hospital) for persons injured in the storm or for those who are ill. After the ‘All Clear’ you can access care at the Health Centres.
2. Only use safe water for drinking, cooking & personal hygiene. Safe water means boiled, bottled or treated water. Water should be stored in sealed containers.
3. Throw away all perishable foods like meat, poultry, fish, eggs and ‘left-overs’ which were stored above 40 degrees Fahrenheit or un-refrigerated for two hours or more. Throw away food with an unusual odour, colour or texture.
4. Eat only safe food after the hurricane. Safe food includes canned foods.
5. 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.
6. Do not go outside barefooted; avoid wearing open shoes and watch out for broken glass.
7. Do not touch loose or dangling electrical wires. Report these to the nearest police station
or to the Electricity Companies (SKELEC & NEVLEC).
All are advised to take the necessary precautions, prepare for Tropical Storm BERYL and help your neighbour wherever possible. May God bless
Saturday July 7, 2018
Office of the Chief Medical Officer (CMO) Ministry of Health
