Amid forecasts of a very active 2010 hurricane season, the Director of Missions and Ministry, Mrs. Carmen Bromley, is urging persons responsible for Diocesan properties – churches, church halls, rectories, schools, Childrens’ Homes, Residences for the Aged, the Nuttall Memorial Hospital and the Hillcrest Diocesan Retreat Centre – to make the necessary preparations, using the Diocesan Disaster Plan as a guide.
The plan, which is designed to protect human life, safeguard property and reduce the negative effect of disasters, guides clergy, laity, plant managers, employees and residents on the steps to be taken prior to, during and after a disaster. It also highlights special requirements for specific properties.
“Institutions which observe the guidelines set out in this plan, as well as the advice provided by the Office of Disaster Preparedness and Emergency Management (ODPEM), will not be taken by surprise in the event of a disaster. They should be able to cope for at least three days without external assistance, continue to function despite the possible loss of communications facilities and utilities, manage post-traumatic stress and ensure a speedy return to normal operations,” Mrs. Bromley explains.
The Director of Missions and Ministry has also renewed the appeal for institutions to contribute to the Diocesan Insurance Fund. She notes that persons responsible for properties that are not covered by the Fund will not have access to the benefits if these buildings are damaged.
The plan, which also covers response to earthquake, fire and civil disturbance, was developed by a Sub-Committee of the Board of Missions and Ministry, led by the Suffragan Bishop of Mandeville, the Rt. Rev. Harold Daniel.
For details on the Diocesan Disaster Plan, please see: http://www.anglicandiocesejamaica.com/content/management/disaster_plan.html
For additional and related information go to the ODPEM site at: http://www.odpem.org.jm/Home/tabid/36/Default.aspx and check, in particular, the National Emergency Welfare and Shelter Plan
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