Disasters in Barbados

The statutory basis is the Emergency Management Act 2006, Cap 160A. The Department of Emergency Management (DEM) has operated since 1 April 2007 as the central body for prevention, risk reduction, preparedness, warnings, response, assistance and recovery. The National Emergency Management System (NEMS) includes the Emergency Management Advisory Council, the National Emergency Operations Centre (NEOC), 15 standing emergency committees and 30 District Emergency Organisations (DEOs). Other participants include Barbados Meteorological Services (BMS), Barbados Police Service, Barbados Fire Service, Emergency Ambulance Service, Barbados Defence Force, utility companies, CDEMA, relief organisations and the Red Cross. Historically, storms and flooding represent the greatest practical hazards. Low-lying coastal areas and densely built-up areas can be affected by heavy rainfall, inadequate drainage, storm surges, coastal erosion and landslides. Drought and water stress recur. Earthquakes and tsunamis are less frequent but can have far-reaching consequences. Regional volcanic ash, fires, hazardous-material and oil incidents, and industrial or transport accidents are also part of disaster protection when they threaten large numbers of people or critical infrastructure. Several events may occur one after another or at the same time. Preparedness includes a family plan, knowledge of local hazard zones, safe routes, a meeting point and alternative accommodation. Households should plan for children, older people, people with disabilities, medication, pets and ways to communicate. Roofs, windows and loose outdoor objects should be secured, drains kept clear, and identity documents and property records protected. An emergency bag, known as a Go Bag, should contain water, non-perishable or ready-to-eat food, first-aid supplies, medication, a flashlight, batteries, a radio, hygiene items, identification, documents, cash, a charger or power bank and special foods. The DEM checklist allows for at least three to five days of water and food; the Shelter Booklet refers to supplies for up to two weeks. Generators may be operated only outdoors and with adequate ventilation. The Atlantic hurricane season lasts from 1 June to 30 November, but tropical systems can also form outside this period. A Hurricane Watch means that hazardous conditions are possible within 48 hours. A Hurricane Warning means that such conditions are expected within 36 hours; the exact warning time depends on the event. DEM publishes official messages and instructions. BMS provides information about rain, wind, marine conditions, thunderstorms and tropical weather. The Government Information Service, BGIS, radio, television, official social channels and available CAP or BMS apps may also be used. Rumours should be checked against these sources. A personal sense that the danger has passed does not replace an official ALL CLEAR. In life-threatening situations, the emergency numbers are 211 for the police, 311 for the fire service and 511 for the ambulance service. DEM can be reached at 438-7575 for disaster reports and coordination. During high winds, a sturdy interior room away from windows provides better protection than staying near the coast. Floodwater, fallen lines, damaged buildings and blocked roads must be avoided. No one should drive or walk through moving water. After an earthquake, the steps Drop, Cover and Hold On are recommended; afterwards, check for injuries, fire, gas, water, sewage and electrical hazards. Tsunamis require immediate action when a strong or long earthquake is felt, unusual sounds come from the sea, or the sea unusually recedes or rises. People at risk should move on foot away from the coast and low-lying areas to a meeting point, higher ground or inland. If that is not possible, a reinforced building on an upper floor, preferably from the third floor upward, offers an alternative. Multiple waves and strong currents may occur over many hours. The safe area should not be left until the official ALL CLEAR; BMS is the point of contact for tsunami warnings. DEM emergency shelters in Category 1 may be opened during hurricanes and other hazardous events. A Category 2 shelter remains open only if its conditions are suitable after the event. Shelters open only after a DEM announcement. The current list, including locations, status, accessibility and drinking-water information, is available through the DEM or Government service; the online search is free and requires no registration. Residents and visitors may use shelters according to the applicable instructions. Registration is required. A Go Bag, identification, medication, water, a flashlight and cash should be brought. Pets, weapons, alcohol, controlled substances and smoking are prohibited there; valuables are not stored. Capacity, transport and accessibility depend on the location and event. The NEOC coordinates resources, public information, warnings, evacuations, damage assessments, needs assessments, emergency assistance and initial recovery. DEOs connect communities with volunteers and local resources. During operations, the fire service may involve additional bodies such as the police, ambulance service, Defence Force, Barbados Light & Power, Barbados Water Authority and DEM. Support from the Red Cross, the relevant regional agency or other organisations depends on the event. There is no blanket individual compensation, general fee waiver or uniform recovery deadline. After an event, damage should be reported to DEM and, if safe, documented with photographs, insurance records and proof of ownership. Damaged buildings, contaminated or flooded areas and possible danger zones must not be entered. Water and food must be checked for safety; gas, electricity and a building's structural condition require clearance before use resumes. Roads, bridges, electricity, water, telecommunications, ports, the airport, hospitals, shelters and drainage may fail. Drinking water should be used sparingly, devices should be charged, and the radio and batteries should be kept ready. Fallen lines must not be touched. Return and reopening depend on instructions from the authorities and utility companies.