Hurricane Season 2016

Hurricane Season 2016

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Emergency numbers

911 Emergency (Police, Fire, Ambulance)

945-1CUC (945-1282) Electricity

948-2224 Electricity Cayman Brac

945-4347 Cayman Water Emergency

949-6352 Water Authority

949-4222 Police Station

949-2276 Fire Headquarters

GT-949-8600 HSA

948-2243 Faith Hospital

949-6060 CTMH

Name: _____________________________________ Number: ____________________________________

Name: _____________________________________ Number: ____________________________________

Name: _____________________________________ Number: ____________________________________

Name: _____________________________________ Number: ____________________________________Name: _____________________________________ Number: ____________________________________

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Contents

GOVERNOR’S MESSAGE Page 4

DEPUTY PREMIER’S MESSAGE Page 5

DIRECTOR GENERAL NATIONAL WEATHER SERVICE Page 6

DIRECTOR HAZARD MANAGEMENT Page 7

DISTRICT COMMISSIONER’S MESSAGE page 8

HOW AND WHAT TO PREPARE PRIOR TO A HURRICANE Page 9

CATEGORIES AND FLAGS Page 10

HAZARDS IN MANY FORMS Page 11

BENEFITS OF PROPANE Page 12

HURRICANE MYTHS DEBUNKED Page 14

ATLANTIC HURRICANE TRACKING CHART Page 15

EMERGENCY MEDICAL CENTRES Page 17

PREPARING YOUR HOME FOR A HURRICANE OR STORM Page 18

AFTERMATH OF A HURRICANE Page 20,21

Publication Editor: Lavonida Edwards-Nembhard

Advertising Sales : Doreen Trickett, Lavonida Edwards-Nembhard, Garfield McRae

Art Director: Michael Kurov

Graphic Artist: Alexey Kovalov

Copyright (c) The Cayman Reporter 2016

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Governor’s 2016 Hurricane Season MessageOnce again we are at the start of Hurricane Season. Over the next six months or so, we are likely to see hurricanes and tropical storms of varying strength pass through our region. Their paths and impact are impossible to predict. We must learn from the lessons of the past and ensure that we are as prepared as we can be.

Whether you are a new arrival with little experience of hurricanes and tropical storms, or a veteran of hurricanes past, being prepared is the best way to protect your life and the lives of your family members, as well as your property.

I encourage you all to take a few basic steps. These are: ensuring you are well informed, making plans, and preparing.

Being informed means using the many online and media resources that are available to help us through this process of getting ready for Hurricane Season.

I recommend that you visit the website of Hazard Management Cayman Islands at www.caymanprepared.ky . This is the agency that oversees the Government’s response to natural and manmade disasters. You can also follow them on Facebook and Twitter to make sure that you receive the most up to date information.

Another essential website is www.weather.gov.ky, which is the Cayman Islands National Weather Service. You can view the latest images from our local Doppler radar on this website.

Please don’t forget that our local media will also be a key source of information throughout Hurricane Season. Cayman27, Radio Cayman, The Cayman Reporter and the Cayman Compass routinely share public information that will help you be as well informed as possible.

I also said it was important to make plans and to prepare.

Please find out in advance about your area, your home, and how these may have been affected by hurricanes in the past. Think about where your home is positioned. If you have a car, where might be the safest place to park it? Find out the location of your nearest hurricane shelter, in case you need to get to a place of safety, and where your nearest emergency medical centre is.

This information will help you decide whether to stay in your home or

whether to go to an alternative location.

There are some basic preparations that should be made by everyone on Island. One of the most important is to put together a hurricane supply kit. At a minimum this should include several days supply of fresh water, non-perishable food, and essential medication for you and your family, as well as a flashlight to help you to get through the days following a hurricane when electricity may not be available. We must be ready to be self sufficient for as long as is necessary.

Please make sure your travel documents are up to date and you have these documents stored safely.

Storm surge remains the primary threat to life and property in the Cayman Islands and this is far more than just a coastal threat. We know that past hurricanes have produced storm surge levels over 20 feet above the normal mean sea level: that means if you live in a low lying area, even if you live far from the shoreline, then you are still vulnerable - especially if you live in a single story dwelling. What this means is that residents should err on the side of caution when it comes to their sheltering arrangements, and listen closely to local bulletins when a hurricane is approaching.

This message has been mainly about personal preparations for a storm, but I know that many of you will also be interested in taking part in community effort, if a damaging storm does happen. I encourage all those who are interested to volunteer with one of the many groups that provide assistance at such a time.

These group include; Hazard Management’s Community Emergency Response Teams, the Red Cross, the Department of Children and Family Services shelter managers, and the Royal Cayman Islands Police Service Special Constabulary.

When it comes to protecting your family, your home and your community, it is always sensible to hope for the best but to plan for the worst.

Hurricane PreparednessProgramme Message from Hon. Moses Kirkconnell. JP, MLA

Deputy Premier and Minister for District Administration, Tourism and Transport

Living in paradise we often take for granted the hot sunny days and beautiful lush landscape that are enjoyed on a daily basis. But every once in a while Mother Nature reminds us that the same forces that created our balmy breezes and warm ocean waves can also bring high winds, heavy rain and tidal surges.

While modern day weather forecasting is not an exact science, it typically provides enough advance notice of an approaching hurricane.

Should such a warning occur, are you ready with your emergency kits and family evacuation plans?

Do you have enough water for drinking and bathing, and sufficient batteries for your radio and flashlights?

Have you already stocked up on canned goods? Are your medications readily available if needed?

If you live in a low-lying area, have you taken precautionary measures against flooding?

I hope your answers to these questions and other hurricane preparedness questions is yes?

If not, as we approach the start of another hurricane season I encourage you to make time to complete your preparations for the 2016 season, if you haven’t already done so.

Natural disasters can strike at any time and have the potential to cause disruption, damage to property, and even take lives. Being prepared and knowing what to do can help to keep

you and your loved ones safe before, during and after a storm.

The Cayman Islands Government takes seriously its responsibility to ensure the safety of all residents, including guests who are visiting our shores. Should a disaster strike, emergency services will be on the scene as soon as possible. In the immediate aftermath of a storm, they may not be able to get help to everyone as quickly as needed. This is why it is so important to be prepared.

The Cayman Islands are a popular destination for vacationers, including during the summer and fall months. If you are visiting our Islands between 1 June and 30 November, it is advisable to check with your hotel about what to do in the event of a severe storm or hurricane. Some properties offer a Hurricane Guarantee, which is designed to take the worry out of vacation planning during the hurricane season. When a hurricane is anticipated, guests may cancel their stay up to 48 hours prior to check-in at participating Hotel’s and condos, with at most, only a one night penalty. If vacation time is cut short because of an impending hurricane during your Cayman Islands trip, some properties also offer a free replacement stay. This allows guests to rebook for the same duration as the original vacation; regardless of how many days were affected by the storm. For detailed information on property guarantees, please visit the property’s website or contact them directly. Information can also be found on the Cayman Islands Department of Tourism website at www.caymanislands.ky.

Preparing for and responding to hurricanes is a shared responsibility. Planning ahead for the challenges you are likely to face and taking action to be prepared, can help to reduce the impact of the event and help you to get through.

Annual hurricane predictions are at best, a guesstimate of anticipated hurricane activity in the Atlantic, Gulf of Mexico and Caribbean regions. Although this year’s prediction forecasts ‘normal’ seasonal activity, we should not allow that to lull us into a false sense of security. It only takes one severe storm to cause damage and destruction!

Being prepared is the right thing to do for yourself, your family, your business, your community and our Country. I encourage you not to wait till it may be too late!

May God continue to bless and protect us all particularly during this hurricane season and always.

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Hurricane Season 2016 The local picture

By: John Tibbetts Director General, Cayman Islands National Weather Service (CINWS)

As we transition from the dry season to the wet season, we move into a portion of the year that we must increase our awareness of the threat of life changing dangerous storms regionally known as Hurricanes. We come to the start of the Atlantic basin Hurricane season that runs from June 1 until November 30.The 14 April 2016 forecast, by Phil Klotzbach and William Gray of Colorado State University’s Tropical Cyclone Project, calls for 12 named storms, of which 5 are expected to become hurricanes and 2 major hurricane, i.e. with winds 111 mph or higher. Note that this number does not include Hurricane Alex which formed out of an extra-tropical storm in January. Alex is only the third hurricane ever recorded in January in the Atlantic Ocean, according to Colorado State University meteorologist Phil Klotzbach.It is the first hurricane to form in January since an unnamed storm in 1938. The last storm to occur in January was Alice in 1955. That storm formed in December 1954. Hurricane records began in 1851. (USA Today, January 14, 2016)

The team anticipates that the 2016 Atlantic basin hurricane season will have approximately average activity. The current weakening El Niño is likely to transition to either neutral or La Niña conditions by the peak of the Atlantic hurricane season. While the tropical Atlantic is relatively warm, the far North Atlantic is quite cold, potentially indicative of a negative phase of the Atlantic Multi-Decadal Oscillation. Despite the near average prediction, residents are reminded that it only takes one direct hit to change our perception of the season. With this in mind all residents should at this time evaluate their own level of preparedness and create or amend their own hurricane plans. These actions taken early will ease the level of stress associated with an approaching hurricane and the panic of last minute preparations. Awareness of the latest tropical activity goes hand in hand with being prepared and to that regard, I would encourage residents to pay attention to news media and especially the local media as it will be utilized by the CINWS and Hazzard Management Cayman Islands (HMCI) to distribute the forecast of local impacts of the storm or hurricane along with other relevant local information.

While the people of the Cayman Islands have in our recent memories been blessed with a few years of low hurricane activity we cannot afford to take any season for granted. We must remember Hurricane Paloma that devastated

Cayman Brac in 2008 and Hurricane Ivan devastation of Grand Cayman in 2004 and the 1932 Hurricane that killed 109 people to realize how truly dangerous these hurricanes can be. While a review of the 2015 season would speak about low activity across the Atlantic, and especially for us in the Cayman Islands as we were spared the impacts of such systems, the region was not so lucky with the passage of Erika which resulting in 30 deaths and over $500 million dollars damage in Dominica and the passage of Joaquin $120.6 million dollars of damage in the Bahamas and the sinking of the cargo ship “El Faro” with the souls on board, respectively. Note that both of these hurricanes names have been retired.Names that will be used for the 2016 Hurricane Season are

Alex* Bonnie Colin DanielleEarl Fiona Gaston HermineIan Julia Karl LisaMatthew Nicole Otto PaulaRichard Shary Tobias VirginieWalter

*Hurricane Alex formed in January. The CINWS maintains an excellent collaborative relationship with the National Hurricane Center (NHC) in Miami Florida and we appreciate the significant work being carried out by this center as well as the advances that have made in hurricane tracking. The CINWS and its dedicated staff stand ready to provide public warnings and advisories in the event of any threat from tropical systems, detailing local impacts based on the latest storm predictions issued by the NHC. Locally the addition of the European Union funded Kearney Gomez Weather Radar represents a high level tool that will give greater detailed information about storms passing near the Cayman Islands. This information is utilized along with a wide suite of other products to help the qualified forecasters at our own Cayman Islands National Weather Service to better forecast weather impacts. It is also expected that the data collected by the radar be relayed to the NHC for assimilation into the latest model inputs as well as for further research into tropical cyclone.

I urge residents to pay particular attention to the local media as well as websites provided by the media, Hazards Management Cayman islands and the Cayman Islands National Weather Service for the latest accurate information on storms and its potential impacts tailored for the Cayman Islands.

To be informed can lead to better personal as well as community decisions, and this can be the difference between life and death during a hurricane. Remember, there is an abundance of statistics to show that quite a number of people have perished because they failed to be prepared, but we are yet to find where being properly prepared led to individual demise. (I understand what you are trying to say but think this may be paraphrasing a quote from someone and as such proper credit must be given).

It should be noted that sadly, Dr. William Gray passed away April 2016 and his invaluable input into seasonal hurricane prediction will be missed.

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2016 Hurricane Season MessageHazard Management Cayman Islands (HMCI) Director, McCleary FrederickNo one knows what the future holds, or if we will be affected by any tropical cyclones this hurricane season, but we can all be prepared. I urge all residents to check their emergency plans and supplies. Go through your normal preparation activities, from clearing your yard of debris, and checking on shutters, to putting a hurricane supply kit together. Use lessons learned from past storms and anticipate as well as you can. Everyone should spend some time preparing.

The accuracy of predicting and monitoring storm tracks has improved over the years and we have better information to make decisions, however, hurricanes remain inherently unpredictable. Take the risks posed by the storm season with the utmost seriousness and do all you can to ensure that you and your loved ones are safe.

The importance of disaster preparedness at the ‘grass roots’ level has long been recognized as critical to increasing national resilience. I am pleased to report that community participation is now occurring in nearly every district in the Cayman Islands with the establishment of the Community Emergency Response Teams

(CERTs). These volunteer groups receive training in shelter management, initial damage assessment, first aid, basic search and rescue as well as fire suppression skills.

Over the years, CERT groups have been established in North Sound Estates, West Bay, North Side, Windsor Park, Prospect and Belford Estates. Additional CERT groups are in development and we hope that two new teams will be in operation by the end of the year.

HMCI has now embarked on a new initiative with a program in the High Schools called ‘Campus CERT.’ The first group of students at the John Gray High School successfully completed the program earlier this year and another team will go through Campus CERT training at the Clifton Hunter High School commencing in September.

I strongly encourage residents to take the opportunity to join their neighbourhood CERT team when our training team comes to your area - or join an established team if there is already one established in your community. The CERT training enables people to respond confidently in many challenging situations, especially in disasters and the CERT training also serves to make the Cayman Islands more resilient overall.

We hope the 2016 hurricane season will once again see the Cayman Islands spared from the wrath of these events, but while we hope for the best, we still must plan for the possibility of an impact. Take advantage of every opportunity to be informed you can also find additional resources to assist you on HMCI’s website www.Caymanprepared.ky

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Preparing for a Hurricane:Always ensure that trees and branches on your property are properly maintained and grow away from power lines. Trees or branches that grow over 10 feet away from power lines can be trimmed bylandscapers. DO NOT attempt to cut trees or branches that grow within 10 feet of power lines. Only personnel approved by CUC, such as UMC Cayman Ltd., should trim trees or branches within 10 feet of power lines. Contact 914-1229 or e-mail dwood@cuc.ky for assistance.

Replenish your stock of batteries and check flashlights, battery lanterns and radios.

Keep a ‘C’ type fire extinguisher in your home or office. NEVER attempt to extinguish an electrical fire with water - you could be electrocuted.

Severe lightning typically accompanies a hurricane. Turn off the main breaker and unplug all appliances to prevent unnecessary electrical damage.

After a Hurricane has passed:DO NOT touch fallen or low-hanging power lines; stay as far away as possible. DO NOT touch or attempt to move objects in contact with power lines. Always assume the lines are energised.

DO NOT turn on your main breaker until you ensure that thesecondary (individual) breakers are OFF. Once you switch on the main breaker, turn on the secondary breakers one at a time to check for electrical faults. If a fault is detected, turn off the main breaker immedi-ately and contact a qualified electrician.

In the event of a hurricane, CUC will continue to supply power as long as possible. When the winds reach hurricane force, it will benecessary to shutdown the North Sound Road Power Plant for the duration of the storm in the interest of public safety. CUC has anEmergency Preparedness Committee and action will be taken by our staff to restore service to our customers as soon as possible.

To report or obtaininformation on power outages, call 945-1CUC. In the event of an electrical emergency, pleasecall 911 immediately.

Hurricane PreparednessValuable electrical safety tips for

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OFFICE OF THE HONORARY JAMAICAN GOVERNMENTREPRESENTATIVE IN THE CAYMAN ISLANDS

Public NoticeThe Jamaican Consulate’s website www.jaconsulatecayman.org has been updated. We encourage all Jamaican nationals to visit the website and register online.

Please be reminded especially during the hurricane season, to keep important documents (e.g. birth

Please visit the Cayman Prepared website at: www.caymanprepared.gov.ky for a listing of available shelters in your area.

The information and application forms for Jamaican passports and entry visas are also available on our website. These services may be interrupted during the threat of a hurricane and persons should ensure travel documents and visas are updated.

George Town, Grand Cayman, Tel: 345 949-9526 Fax: 345 945-7294E-mail: jamaica@candw.ky Website: www.jaconsulatecayman.org

A message to the people of Cayman Brac & Little Cayman

It only takes one storm to change your life and community. During the months leading up to Hurricane season, it is always a good idea to continuously check all travel documents for validity. To avoid delays and the incurrence of additional fees it may be good practice to apply for visa waivers at the beginning of the hurricane season if your passport does not hold a visitor visa. Be sure to keep copies of all official documents in a safe place. Storing a digital copy is always a good idea. Emergency document services are available for residents of Cayman Brac and Little Cayman through the District Commissioner’s Office at District Administration in Cayman Brac.Residents are encouraged to secure all personal property and be aware of warnings issues by the National Weather Service. The Sister Islands Emergency Committee work tirelessly to be prepared during the hurricane season and offer assistance where possible to residents of the Sister Islands. All Hurricane

Shelters are regularly maintained and equipped with supplies, as part of our disaster preparedness plan.We have seen firsthand the catastrophic damage over the years that major hurricanes such as the ’32 Storm, Hurricanes, Allen, Gilbert, Ivan and Paloma, among many others, have caused for the Cayman Islands. Thankfully we are resilient people and have worked hard to prepare for such disasters as best we can and with God’s help have been able to bounce back in the after-math. Let’s not become complacent and fail to be prepared. I therefore strongly encourage everyone to have a disaster management plan in place and be well-versed in your plan and be prepared to activate it at very short notice. May God keep us all safe during this hurricane season.

Ernie Scott JPDistrict Commissioner

www.itsyourstoexplore.com

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How and what to prepare prior to a hurricaneDo you know how to prepare for a hurricane? Listed below is important information on how and what to prepare. This information is recommended by Hazard Management of the Cayman Islands.

Get informed• Make a plan • Assemble a kit• Maintain your plan and kit

Ensure that you and your family are prepared for tropical cyclone activity. In preparation, you should do the following:-

• • Come to a decision about where you will shelter during a storm.

• • Store non-perishable food and water.

• • Place all vital documents in a waterproof ‘grab and go’ container.

• • Service your generator if you have one.

• • Check your shutters and make sure that they fit and you have all the parts.

• • Remove debris from the yard.• • Trim back trees.• • Ensure that travel documents

and insurance policies are up to date.

Assemble a Disaster Supplies Kit (DSK). Once disaster hits, families won’t have the time to shop or searchfor supplies. But if they’ve gathered supplies in advance, they are ready for an evacuation, emergency shelter or home confinement.

WATERStore water in clean plastic containers and use a permanent marker to date and identify the container as water. Avoid using containers that will decompose or break, such as glass bottles. A normally active person needs to drink at least two quarts (2.3 liters) of water each day. Hot environments and intense physical activity can double that amount. Children, nursing mothers, and ill people will need more If you have questions about the quality of the water, purify it before drinking. You can heat water to a rolling boil for 10 minutes. You can also use household liquid chlorine bleach. To purify water, use the following table as a guide:

Water quantity Bleach amount

• 1 quart (1.13 liters) 4 drops

• 1 gallon (4.5 liters) 16 drops

• 5 gallons (22.7 liters) 1 teaspoon

After adding bleach, shake or stir the water container and let it stand for 30 minutes before drinking.

FOODStore at least a three-day supply of nonperishable food. Select foods that require no refrigeration, preparation, or cooking and little or no water. If you must heat food, pack ‘Sterno’ – the small cans of fuel used by caters. Select food items that are compact and lightweight in your Disaster Supplies Kit, such as:

• Instant tea, or coffee, canned juices, long life milk, condensed milk.

• Food for infants or elderly or persons on a special diet.

• Ready to eat canned meats and vegetables.

• High energy foods- peanut butter, jam, crackers

• Comfort food like cookies, candy, granola bars, sweet cereal, lollipops.

• Staples - flour, rice, sugar, salt pepper.

• Food replacement supplements like vitamins.

FIRST AID KIT Assemble a first aid kit for your home and one for each car. A first aid kit should include: (20) adhesive bandages, various sizes.(6) 5’’ x 9’’ sterile dressing.(6) conforming roller gauze bandage.(6) triangular bandages.(6) 3 x 3 sterile gauze pads.(6) 4 x 4 sterile gauze pads.(3) roll 3’’ cohesive bandage.(12) germicidal hand wipes or waterless alcohol-based hand sanitizer.(6) antiseptic wipes. (1) packet cotton balls.(2) pair large medical grade non-latex gloves.(3) Adhesive tape, 2’’ width.Anti-bacterial ointment.Antiseptic.Rubbing Alcohol.Cold pack.

Scissors (small, personal).Tweezers.Assorted sizes safety pinsCPR breathing barrier, such as a face shield or dust mask.

NON-PRESCRIPTION DRUGS• Aspirin or non-aspirin pain

reliever• Anti-diarrhea medication• Antacid (for stomach upset)• Laxative• Activated charcoal

TOOLS AND SUPPLIES• Mess kits, or paper cups,

plates, and plastic utensils • Emergency preparedness

manual • Battery-operated radio and

extra batteries • Flashlight and extra batteries • Cash and change • Non-electric can opener, utility

knife• Toilet paper• Feminine supplies• Soap• Personal hygiene items-

toiletries, toothpaste and brush

• Blankets• Fire extinguisher: small canister

ABC type • Tube tent• Tape, rope • Compass • Matches in a waterproof

container • Aluminum foil • Plastic storage containers • Signal flare • Paper, pencil • Needles, thread • Medicine dropper • Shut-off wrench, to turn off

gas and water• Pliers, hammer, saw, machete• Nails (large)• Rain gear- rain coat, boots ,

gloves • Sturdy shoes or work boots• Whistle• Bucket with tight lid• Plastic garbage bags in various

sizes• Plastic sheeting • Household Chlorine bleach• Hats and working gloves• Disinfectant• Bug spray• Map of the area (for locating

shelters)

WHERE TO STORE YOUR KITIn a dry, cool location, keep it covered if possible. Make sure that it is a familiar location to everyone who will use it, make sure open items are secure and inspect regularly for food/liquid spoilage.

SPECIAL ITEMSRemember family members with special requirements, such as infants and elderly or disabled persons.For Baby

• Formula• Diapers• Bottles• Powdered milk• Medications

For Adults• Heart and high blood pressure

medication• Insulin• Prescription drugs• Denture needs• Contact lenses and supplies• Extra eye glasses• Board games and other games

that don’t require batteries or electricity, books for children and adults.

POSSESSIONS AND DOCUMENTS• Keep these records in

a waterproof, portable container:

• Will, insurance policies, contracts, deeds, stocks and bonds.

• Passports, social security cards, immunization records.

• Bank account numbers.• Credit card account numbers

and companies.• Inventory of valuable

household goods, important telephone numbers.

• Family records (birth, marriage, death certificates).

• Store your kit in a convenient place known to all family members. Keep a smaller version of the supplies kit in the trunk of your car.

• Keep items in airtight plastic bags. Change your stored water supply every six months so it stays fresh. Replace your stored food every six months. Re-think your kit and family needs at least once a year. Replace batteries, update clothes, etc.

• Ask your physician or pharmacist about storing prescription medications.

Information by Hazard Management Cayman Islands.

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Categories and Flags There are five categories listed on the Saffir-Simpson scale, which measures wind speed. Listed below are the Categories and wind speeds for each. The measurements are noted in miles per hour (mph), Knots (kt) and Kilometers per hour (km/h).

Cat. 1 74-95 mph 64-82 kt 119-153 km/h

Very dangerous winds will produce some damage: Large branches of trees will snap and shallowly rooted trees may be toppled. Extensive damage to power lines and poles likely will result in power outages, and even solidly constructed homes could have damage to roof, shingles, vinyl siding and gutters.

Cat. 2 96-110 mph 83-95 kt 154-177 km/h

This carries extremely dangerous winds that will cause extensive damage: Solidly built homes could sustain major roof and siding damage. Shallowly rooted trees will be snapped or uprooted. Roadways and paths maybe block from fallen trees and debris. Power loss is to be expected in almost all districts with outages that could last from several days to weeks.

Cat. 3 111-129 mph 96-112 kt 178-208 km/h

Devastating damage will occur: Solid built structures may have major damage or removal of roof

decking and gable ends. Many trees will be snapped or uprooted, blocking numerous roads. Electricity and water will be unavailable for several days to weeks after the storm passes.

Cat. 4 130-156 mph 113-136 kt 209-251 km/h

Catastrophic damage will occur: Solidly constructed homes can sustain severe damage with loss of most of the roof structure and/or some exterior walls. Most trees will be snapped or uprooted and power poles downed. Fallen trees and power poles will isolate residential areas. Power outages will last weeks or months. Most of the area will be uninhabitable.

Cat. 5 157 mph or higher 137 kt or higher 252 km/h or higher

Catastrophic damage will occur: A high percentage of homes will be destroyed, with total roof failure and wall collapse. Fallen trees and power poles

will isolate residential areas. Power outages will last for weeks or months and most of area will be uninhabitable for a period ranging from weeks to months.

Know your Flags When a tropical cyclone is likely to affect the Cayman Islands, warnings will be issued as follows:

ALERT:On the notification that a hurricane or tropical storm is likely to strike the Cayman Islands within the next 72 hours or more the first alert of the three phase warning is issue .

WATCH: A watch is issued when notification is received that a hurricane or tropical storm is likely to strike within the next 48 hours.

WARNING:Once notification is received that a hurricane or tropical storm is, likely to strike within the next 36 hours, a warning is issued .

ALL CLEAR:Once notification is received that, a hurricane or tropical storm has passed, or no longer poses a threat.

Hurricane Signal Flags

ALERT One square red flag

WATCH One square red flag with a black square in the centre

WARNING: Two square red flags with black square in the centre

ALL CLEAR One square green flag

Tropical Storm Signal Flags

ALERT One triangular red flag

WATCH One triangular red flag with a black square in the centre

WARNING Two triangular red flags with black square in the centre.

ALL CLEAR One triangular green flag

Warning flags will be flown from the following Sites:

• The Courts Office • The National Museum • General Post Office, George Town • Owen Roberts International Airport • All Fire Stations • All Police Stations

West Bay: Cayman Turtle Farm West Bay District Clinic

Bodden Town: Savannah Primary School Bodden Town Clinic Lighthouse Club

North Side: Town Hall Cayman Kai

East End Town Hall Presbyterian Church Hall Primary School

South Sound Community Centre

Cayman Brac District Administration Building Police Station Charles Kirkconnell Airport Port Authority Aston Rutty CentreLittle Cayman Customs Building Edward Bodden Airport

All outside activity will cease once wind speeds reach 39mph.

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Storm SurgeStorm surge is often the greatest threat to life and property from a hurricane mainly along coast lines. There have been large death tolls that have resulted from the rise of the ocean associated with many of the major hurricanes that have made landfall. Prime examples of what storm surge can do are, Cayman’s experience in 2004 with hurricane Ivan where the sea reached far inland from storm surge and New Orleans with hurricane Katrina in 2005. These are proof of the damage, devastation and death that can be caused by surge. The ranges of death toll can be from zero to numbers such as with Katrina in Louisiana, leaving at least 1500 persons dead. Many of those deaths were directly, or indirectly, as a result of storm surge.A storm surge is produced as water is pushed toward the shore by the force of the winds moving cyclonically around the storm. The impact on surge of the low pressure associated with intense storms is minimal in comparison to the water being forced toward the shore by the wind.The maximum potential storm surge for a particular location depends on a number of different factors. Storm surge is sensitive to the slightest changes in storm intensity, forward speed, size, angle of approach to the coast, central pressure (this is minimal contribution in comparison to the wind), and the shape and characteristics of the coast-line such as bays and estuaries. Other factors which can impact storm surge are the width and slope of the continental shelf. A shallow slope will potentially produce a greater storm surge than a steep shelf. For example, a Category 4 storm hitting a coastline, which has a very wide and shallow continental shelf, may produce a 20-foot storm surge, while the same hurricane in a place where the continental shelf drops off very quickly, might see an 8 or 9-foot surge. In confined harbors, such as marinas the combination of storm tides, waves, and currents can also severely damage piers & boats. Salt water intrusion to fresh water ponds, bayous and wells, kills vegetation, can send animals fleeing from flooded areas and can endanger public health.

WindWind damage is another threat to people, livestock, and pets. They can be struck by flying or falling debris and could be injured or killed. During a hurricane the wind can lift debris airborne which can cause unprotected windows to break if struck. Commonplace is damage to commercial signage, failure of screened-in swimming pool enclosures and porches, some apartment building and shopping center roof coverings could be partially removed and industrial buildings can lose roofing and siding especially from windward corners, rakes, and eaves. In a category 4 and 5 hurricane large amounts of windborne debris will be lofted into the air. Windborne debris damage will break most unprotected windows and penetrate some protected windows. There will be a high percentage of structural damage to the top floors of apartment buildings. Steel frames in older industrial buildings can collapse and most unreinforced masonry walls will fail. Additionally large branches of trees will snap and shallow rooted trees can be toppled, extensive damage to power lines and poles which will likely result in power outages that will last for weeks to possibly months. Catastrophic damage will definitely occur. Another problem that results from wind damage is scarcity of potable water as filtration systems begin to fail. With power outages, damage caused from surge and wind, the lack of potable water will see long-term water shortages increase human suffering.

Heavy rainfallThe heavy rains associated with a tropical weather system are responsible not only for major flooding in areas where the storm initially strikes, but also can affect areas hundreds of miles from where the storm originally made landfall. During landfall, it is not uncommon for 5-10 inches of rain to fall. If the storm is large and moving slowly, rainfall could be even more excessive.

As the storm moves inland, and is downgraded to a tropical depression, the continued circulation, tropical moisture, and topography can contribute to copious amounts of rainfall. Intense flooding also can occur from tropical depressions and storms that do not reach hurricane strength. Once the ground has become saturated from the rainfall, areas inland that are naturally flood prone, will become inundated with water pose a serious threat. Even after the devastated area has dried out the debris and mold left behind can pose a danger to humans and animals.

TornadoesTropical cyclones also can trigger tornadoes. Each storm has a unique pattern of tornadoes whose frequency and occurrence is highly variable from one storm to the next. Tornadoes spawned from hurricanes are more likely during an intense hurricane or one that is intensifying at or near landfall. Individual storm clouds within the hurricane will spawn tornadoes as the hurricane makes landfall, with these tornadoes continuing in some cases, for several days after. Tornadoes occur in a particular quadrant of a hurricane, research suggest that the preferred quadrant is the right- front quadrant relative to a hurricanes direction of propagation, however others suggest that the northeast quadrant is preferred for tornado production regardless of the hurricanes direction. Whatever research is correct, tornadoes typically form part of a hurricane where the vertical wind shear is the largest. If a hurricane interacts with a front or ingest air that is unstable, tornado production will become favaourable. Tornadoes typically form in the spiral rain-bands of a hurricane, however they have been observed in the eye-wall. Some hurricanes develop no tornadoes and others produce several.

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FREEESTIMATES

Hurricane hazards come in many forms, including storm surge, heavy rainfall, inland flooding, high winds, tornadoes, and rip currents.

Hazards in many forms

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Benefits of PropaneClean efficient propane has long been recognized as a safe low-carbon, environmentally friendly energy. By offering the right eco-technology to homes and businesses today, Home Gas is doing its part to ensure a sustainable environment and preserve the natural beauty of the Cayman Islands.Using propane is the smart way to “GO GREEN” and also benefit from the extra value, reliability and versatility of gas appliances. Propane is a less expensive way to power appliances, and is non-toxic, non-caustic and will not create an environmental hazard if released into the ground or seawater. It is not harmful to drinking water, plant or marine life and the vapour is non-polluting and harmless if inhaled by birds, animals or people. It is the perfect energy solution for cooking, heating water, drying clothes, outdoor lighting, patio fire pits, pool heaters, generators, motor fuel and more. Reduce your power bill and lower your carbon footprint by switching to clean burning propane today.

GeneratorsStandby GeneratorsIf you’re planning ahead for the upcoming

hurricane season or even looking for a solution to unplanned power outages here – consider getting a propane-powered Generac generator from Home Gas. When the power goes out, your Generac standby generator goes on - automatically - protecting you and your home 24/7.It’s the most trusted name in residential standby power and a sure way you’ll never feel powerless again! Portable GeneratorsGet power when and where you need it, no matter where you go. Generac’s rugged, dependable portable generators are designed to deliver power wherever you are—from tailgate parties to construction sites. With sizes up to 17500 watts, you can take your power with you wherever you need it.

A big advantage of using a propane generator is that the fuel is cleaner and far less harmful to the environment. Gasoline generators need to be refueled, usually by consumers, and there may be fire hazards involved in refueling and storage. Spilled gasoline can contaminate the surrounding area, leaving messy stains and odors. Propane gas has an infinite shelf life, unlike gasoline, and a

propane generator can still be used even when it has not been powered for some time. An added benefit is that they operate much more quietly.

Safety TipsSince propane is nontoxic, it’s not harmful to soil or water. Propane is one of the safest fuels you can use when the system has been properly installed according the codes and regulations governing its safe usage. This is why it is important to have your propane system installed by fully trained and CETP-certified propane technicians. If you have any questions or concerns, please call Home Gas at 949-7474.

General Guidelines for Using Propane SafelyDo not attempt to install propane appliances yourself if you are not a fully trained, CETP certified installation technician.Never tamper with your system’s supply lines, regulators, storage tank fittings or connections.Do not use an open flame to check for a propane leak.Never store a propane cylinder of any size inside your home or businessFor more information, visit www.homegas.net (Home Gas)

Portable Generator SafetyAt CUC, your safety is our concern! We encourage you to consider these tips when using portable

generators in the event the electricity supply is affected for any significant period of time.

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If you must use a portable generator you should obtain advice from a qualified electrician on the safe operation of the equipment to prevent fires and electrical shocks. Read the manufacturer’s manual to ensure proper use.

Do not connect the output of the generator into the breaker panel or household outlets as it will create safety issues for you and CUC’s line crews. Connecting the generator into the panel box could result in electrocution as it may back feed into and energise CUC’s power lines. Plug your appliances directly into the generator and avoid overloading. Always unplug the generator output cord before starting.

Always place the generator outdoors in a well-ventilated area away from windows or doors to avoid inhaling lethal carbon-monoxide fumes from the exhaust.

Protect the generator from direct exposure to rain by placing it under a canopy, makeshift cover, an open shed or carports. Do not refuel the generator while it is operational and always keep open flames away from the generator. Use a flashlight or battery lantern when refuelling at night.

Additional safety precautions:

If your generator has been stored away for a while and it has not been used, have someone who is familiar with small engines (lawnmowers, etc.), carry out a detailed check and service of the generator before starting it.

Once the generator has been checked, start it in an open area away from buildings, trees and bushes and keep it running for five or ten minutes.

To report or obtain informationon power outages, call 945-1CUC.In the event of an electrical emergency, please call911 immediately.

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Hurricane myths debunkedThere are many urban myths about hurricanes. Here are the truths behind the top five myths about hurricanes.

Myth #1: Taping your windows is the best method to keep them from breaking.Fact: It can’t hold up to wind-driven debris. Use shutters or plywood instead.

This myth isn’t just a problem of semantics. It’s downright dangerous.Almost seven in 10 believed taping windows and glass doors is the right thing to do in hurricane preparation, according to a 2012 survey commissioned by the Federal Alliance for Safe Homes (FLASH).A few flimsy strips of tape won’t strengthen a window to allow it to withstand debris propelled like missiles by strong winds.One reason this practice has persisted, perhaps, is the belief that it reduces the amount of shatter and makes for easier cleanup. However, it’s actually more dangerous because the pieces of glass that do break are larger.

FLASH recommends use of tested and approved hurricane shutters or emergency plywood shutters.

Myth #2: It’s “only” a tropical storm.Fact: Tropical storms, even tropical depressions, can be deadly and destructive.

Tropical storms, of course, don’t pack the punch of high winds and massive storm surge like hurricanes, but they can be prodigious rainfall flooding events.The epic flooding in Houston from Allison actually took place after advisories on Allison were dropped by the National Hurricane Center. The remnant low made an erratic loop over east Texas, dropping south off the Texas coast when a nearly-stationary band of torrential

rain tipped Houston into a paralyzing flood.More recently, both Tropical Storm Debby and Hurricane Isaac in 2012 generated not only heavy rainfall, but impactful storm surge flooding. Isaac did this despite not attaining hurricane status until just prior to its Louisiana landfall.One in four tropical cyclone deaths have been from rainfall flooding. Don’t underestimate tropical storms or tropical depressions.

Myth #3: Winds are the deadliest aspect of hurricanes.Fact: Three out of four US deaths from tropical cyclones are from water.

Let’s apply some truth serum to some stubborn myths about hurricanes and tropical storms, starting with the impacts that are most likely to claim lives.Tropical cyclones are categorized by wind speed, but it’s the storm surge – the water rise generated by a hurricane or tropical storm – that is the greatest tropical cyclone killer, making up 50 percent of all tropical cyclone-related deaths.(Incidentally, storm surge is generated in large part by the tropical cyclone’s wind field pushing water toward shore. The storm’s central pressure is only a tiny contributor to storm surge.)Rainfall flooding (not from storm surge) claims another one in four lives from tropical cyclones. Wind accounts for only five to 10 percent of tropical cyclone fatalities. While winds can be destructive – like those from Hurricanes Charley, Andrew, and Alicia – it’s the water that

is more likely to threaten lives.

A good rule of thumb for hurricane preparedness is “hide from the wind, run from the water.” Do you know if you live in an evacuation zone?

Myth #4: It’s moving like it has a mind of its own.Fact: Tropical cyclones do obey the physical laws governing the atmosphere.

Sometimes tropical storms and hurricanes will stall, meander erratically or take strange paths. Tropical Storm Debby loafed in the northern Gulf of Mexico before finally moving ashore in late June 2012. Later that same season, Hurricane Nadine took one of the strangest paths on a three-week odyssey over the open Atlantic Ocean. These aren’t random walks, but rather responses to the steering winds through the depth of the lower atmosphere.If there are no strong areas of high pressure aloft or southward meanders in the upper-level flow nearby, there is no atmospheric steering wheel, so the tropical cyclone can stall temporarily. Furthermore, as we saw with 2004’s Hurricane Jeanne, storms can make an “anticyclonic loop.”This occurs when a southward dip in the upper-level flow, or trough, initially catches the storm, pulling it toward the east or northeast, but pulls away or isn’t strong enough to carry the storm away. In its wake, high pressure aloft builds in, turning the storm back toward the west or southwest.

Myth #5: Cape Verde hurricanes are always the strongest.Fact: Many of the most intense hurricanes have formed in the western Atlantic Ocean and Caribbean Sea.Cape Verde hurricanes are those that typically form soon after passing the Cape Verde Islands off Africa’s west coast, becoming hurricanes before reaching the Lesser Antilles.Developing from disturbances moving off western Africa called African easterly waves, they have the largest amount of oceanic real estate in the Atlantic Basin over which to intensify, and, therefore, can hold our attention for days as forecasters attempt to diagnose whether these will threaten the Caribbean and United States.However, the record-smashing 2005 hurricane season’s big five hurricanes – Katrina, Rita, Wilma, Emily and Dennis – each developed rapidly either in the Caribbean Sea or Gulf of Mexico. They were “home grown” storms, rather than developing quickly off the African coast.Sometimes dry air and wind shear act to suppress development over the open Atlantic Ocean until more favourable conditions are encountered farther west. Also, some fast-developing tropical cyclones in the eastern Atlantic encounter steering winds that turn them north quicker into the path of strong westerly winds aloft, dampening their intensity and whisking them away.So, while attention in August and September – the “Cape Verde season” – is often turned to what’s coming off Africa, that doesn’t mean an intense hurricane can’t develop closer to home.

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Cayman Islands Health Services Authority95 Hospital Road, Grand Cayman | Tel: (345) 949-8600 | Email: info@hsa.ky | www.hsa.ky

Even when URGENT medical care is needed, immigration authorities still require the proper documentation. Without it, most countries will refuse admission.

Always have travel documents for yourself and your family in order – it can be critical to saving precious lives:

• Ensure that you have the correct and valid travel documents such as a passport and visa to enter the US, UK, Jamaica or any other likely destination*;

• Check the expiration date of your passport and visa(s) – you should have at least six months left before the expiration date;

• If you hold a Caymanian passport, contact the Passport Office to have your passport renewed if not current;

• For queries relating to your visa and or passport requirements please contact the Passport Office directly at 345-949-8344 option 6.

• Ensure that your health insurance premiums are paid and current.

*The US Visa Waiver Programme applies only if you arrive on a commercial airline.For arrival on a charter or air ambulance,

you will need a visa. Also note that theCayman Islands Passport Office cannot issue waivers for UK passport holders.

Be prepared, we are.

Don’t be caught empty-handed when illness or disaster strikes – having the right documentationcan save your life!

Emergency Medical Centres

Emergency Medical Centres are established in key locations on Grand Cayman, Cayman Brac and Little Cayman to provide medical care for people whose age, frailty, mobility, functional and/or medical condition make them particularly vulnerable and at risk in disaster situations.Set up usually in some of the hurricane shelters, these Centres are temporary, emergency-type facilities staffed by trained medical and nursing personnel. These Centres may also be utilised for providing medical care after the disaster, in case of disruption of access to the hospital or health centres.Admissions to Emergency Medical Centres are limited to level of care needed and resources available. Only those individuals with medical impairments who have been able to maintain activities of daily living in a home environment prior to the disaster or emergency situation and who may need some level of medical monitoring & or assistance are allowed in an Emergency Medical Centre. The caregiver at home must accompany and stay with the person at the shelter. Some examples of clients to emergency medical shelters are:•Wheelchair bound persons with medical needs;•Individuals with severely reduced mobility;•Persons with mental illness who are non-violent;•Medically impaired individuals who are able to maintain activities of daily living with special assistance: eg. paralysis, colostomy, tracheostomy;•Persons having continuous IV therapy (pain control, or hydration); or•Oxygen dependent.If an individual with one of these medical conditions was homebound at the time of the emergency or disaster, he/she with the caretaker may report to a shelter designated as Emergency Medical Centre; provided power sources, equipment and back-up supplies are available.All others who do not need medical monitoring or assistance during the passage of a hurricane may report to any shelter. All shelters have first aid service through Red Cross personnel.Hospitalisation: Persons who require professional medical care and or special medical equipment may need hospitalisation. Physicians decide if hospitalisation is required.These may include persons who areVentilator dependant;Pregnant women who are experiencing contractions and women who are in the seventh month or beyond;Persons who report chest pain or have experience chest pain the last 24 hours;Persons with shortness of breath;Persons who have already experienced a potentially serious injury and have not been evaluated by a physician;Uncontrollable or violent persons; andPersons with infected wounds.

Emergency Medical CentresAt least one shelter in each district is designated an Emergency Medical Centre (EMC). The following list indicates those shelters that have been designated EMCs in 2013; however, the designation may be reassigned. Residents should look for information pertaining to the current threat.•Grand Cayman•Prospect Primary School•John A. Cumber Primary School Assembly Hall•William Allen McClaughlin (East End) Civic Centre•Craddock Ebanks (North Side) Civic Centre•Clifton Hunter High School Gymnasium•Bodden Town Primary School Multipurpose Hall•Savannah Primary School Assembly Hall•Cayman Brac•Aston Rutty Centre•Little Cayman •Public Works Department Building (HMCI)

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Preparing your home for a hurricane or stormThe first thing you should do, if you did not build your own home or live in a rental, is to find out if your home meets current building code requirements for high-wind . Experts agree that structures built to meet or exceed current model building codes — high-wind provisions have a much better chance of surviving violent storms. Call your local planning department which should be of help to you. If you are unable to get that information, you should find shelter elsewhere. Work involving your home’s structure may require a building contractor, or even a registered design professional such as an architect or engineer. However, if you’re handy with a hammer and saw, you can do much of the work yourself.What is the best kind of protection?The least expensive and effective method of protecting windows is probably plywood. If plywood covers are properly installed with secure mounting brackets makes sense, they are just as effective, or maybe more effective than commercial shutters. The key is proper thickness and installation. They should be cut, fit, and installed prior to the hurricane season, and then well-marked and stored with hardware for quick installation should a hurricane threaten your area. The time for installation is the same as for shutters. You might consider doing a few windows at a time over a long period, or seeking financing to make them affordable. There will still be some people who, for one reason or another, just can’t afford to do either of these. For those, it is like not having insurance, recovering from the disaster will be slow, and they will have to depend on outside help. Putting tape on the windows is not considered worth the effort.Which shutter choice is best for you depends on how much work you can do in fabricating and installing them, or can afford to pay someone else. The best are those that are affordable and that you can manage to install or operate. Bahamas shutters are a favorite for some because they serve a useful purpose year-round and are quick and easy to install when needed. Storm panels are a good compromise for many people. Steel panels offer the best protection, but are difficult to install because of their weight. Aluminum panels at a comparable price offer less protection, but are easier to install. The key in all of these is that the installation must be good, and done by a qualified and reliable workman, and they must suit the conditions under which they will be installed and

expected to perform. A disabled or elderly person, may require some sort of automated method for closing their shutters; one suggestion would be something like accordion shutters.One word of caution: if electric power is used to open or close shutters, then a mechanical backup is mandatory, since electricity may very well be out either before or after a hurricane.How good is plastic film?Plastic films are no substitute for shutters or plywood covers for windows and doors. However, demonstrations of their strength are quite impressive, and they are probably the next best thing to solid covers for windows and doors, especially where access to such glass areas is physically restricted. One problem is that they provide only a small measure of protection for the glass itself, and frequently the frame holding the glass in place can fail. This includes both windows and sliding glass doors.How do I choose the right company?The same way one goes about choosing any company that performs services. Make sure they are licensed and above all, check their references. If the company provides the references, they will likely not give you names of unsatisfied customers; thus referrals from

friends and relatives are preferable. When should I have shutters installed?The best time to have shutters installed is when your house is built so that they can be part of the design. If you already have a home without shutters, then get them installed as soon as it is practical to do so. If they are permanently in place on your home, -- such as Bahamas shutters, roll-down, accordion, etc. -- then practice closing them once a year before hurricane season to make sure everything is in place and in working order.If they are panels, then check at the beginning of each hurricane season to see that all hardware is available and check each opening to make sure no repairs are required. It is also a good idea to practice installing these panels for a couple of windows or doors prior to each season, to time how long it takes you to install them.When a hurricane watch is issued, check all mechanisms and hardware again, and perhaps install some of your more difficult shutters. If you are in a potential evacuation zone, and it is going to take you more than two to three hours to install your shutters, you may want to start the work during the hurricane watch phase. If you are not in an evacuation zone, you should have time during the hurricane warning phase to install your shutters.

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Strong Storm shutters and even stronger insurance.That’s peace of mind.

Receive a Free Emergency Kit* with every new Heritage HomeCover policy issued this hurricane season.

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P.O.Box 10663 Grand Cayman , Cayman Islands, Telephone: 1-345-946-6060.

www.caymanreporter.com