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Government agencies placed on ‘full alert’ in preparation for Irma
Nassau, The Bahamas – All government agencies in The Bahamas have been put on full alert as various hurricane-tracking models indicate Hurricane Irma poses a “serious threat’ to The Bahamas, Prime Minister, Dr. the Hon. Hubert A. Minnis said Monday.
This includes the activation of emergency protocols by NEMA (National Emergency Management Agency) and the uniformed branches of the government and other relevant government agencies that provide the country’s essential services.
Prime Minister Minnis said the alert also extends to both public and private utility providers.
“The preparation of shelters and coordination with NGOs are also priorities,” Prime Minister Minnis added.
Dr. Minnis said even while the Government of The Bahamas is using all of the resources at its disposal to do all in its power to ensure that the country is fully prepared, there is a need for members of the general public and private institutions to make their preparations as well.
This includes monitoring the location of the hurricane by listening to updates available via reliable radio, television and social media outlets. This especially includes updates that are issued through the National Emergency Management Agency, The Department of Meteorology, other essential government services and non-government organizations that work closely with the Government of The Bahamas.
“Bahamians and residents should avoid relying on sources of information which may be questionable or unreliable, especially potentially fake information circulated through social media,” Prime Minister Minnis said.
Prime Minister Minnis said the Government of The Bahamas will do “all in its power” to ensure that the country is fully prepared for all aspects of disaster management and mitigation efforts – including rescue and recovery efforts.
Preparations, Prime Minister Minnis said, include ensuring that emergency communication networks, including with all Family Islands, are tested and ready for use.
“Even as the Government is taking the necessary precautions to prepare for Hurricane Irma, I want to stress the need for preparation by the general public and private institutions,” Prime Minister Minnis said. “This preparation includes monitoring the location of the hurricane by listening to updates through reliable radio, television and/or reliable social media.
“Bahamians and residents throughout the country need to monitor the location and proximity of Irma to the island or cay on which they live. Maritime traffic, fishermen and boaters should take all necessary precautions as Hurricane Irma approaches The Bahamas,” Prime Minister Minnis added.
