When disaster strikes, preparation can mean the difference between chaos and calm. That’s why January’s Local Governance and Community Development Live Forum focused on one of the most essential committees in Clarendon: the Disaster Preparedness, Hazard Mitigation, and Safety Committee.
Councillor Joel Williams, the Committee Chair, and Stacy-Ann Henningham, the Acting Disaster Preparedness Coordinator, provided key insights during this forum, highlighting how Clarendon is striving to safeguard its people, properties, and progress. Whether you’re a young leader, a community member in Jamaica, or a supporter in the diaspora, disaster preparedness is everyone’s responsibility—and this session unpacked how you can get involved.
Didn’t catch the live stream? You can watch the full replay here: Watch Now.
Highlights You Can’t Miss
1. Disaster Preparedness in Clarendon Beyond Hurricanes
We often think of disaster preparedness in terms of hurricanes or earthquakes, but this forum reminded us that disasters come in many forms; including health crises, poor waste management, and community hazards. Preparing for the unexpected is a holistic process involving collaboration, education, and community action.
2. The Committee’s Role in Readiness
The Disaster Preparedness Committee is tasked with keeping Clarendon in a constant state of readiness. This includes:
Coordinating with schools, businesses, and government agencies.
Conducting training sessions, drills, and workshops to strengthen community knowledge.
Collaborating with partners like the Red Cross, ODPEM, and other NGOs.
3. Community Achievements
The Committee has already delivered tangible results:
Upgraded shelters in Portland Cottage, Rocky Point, and other communities.
Conducted earthquake and tsunami drills in Milk River and Rocky Point.
Installed floodgates and signage to reduce risk in flood-prone areas.
Practical Tips for Every Household
No matter where you live, disaster preparedness starts at home. Here are the full tips shared by Ms Henningham:
Assemble an Emergency Kit:
Include food, water, first aid supplies, medication, flashlights, batteries, a portable radio, candles, and other essentials for at least 72 hours.
Create a Disaster Plan:
Identify emergency contacts, meeting points, and evacuation routes.
Make special plans for vulnerable members, such as the elderly or individuals with disabilities.
Know Your Shelters:
Locate the nearest emergency shelter and learn how to get there.
Prepare Your Property:
Reinforce structures, trim trees, clear debris, and secure items that may become hazards during disasters.
Document Your Belongings:
Make an inventory of possessions and secure important documents in waterproof storage.
Stay Informed:
Follow local media and trusted sources for real-time updates during emergencies.
Volunteer in Your Community:
Join or support community disaster management groups or organisations like the Red Cross.
Clarendon is vulnerable, but preparation is the key to resilience. Every resident must play their part. – Stacy-Ann Henningham
Preparing for Health Emergencies
In addition to natural disasters, the forum highlighted the importance of health preparedness:
Preventative Health Is Critical:
Maintain a healthy diet to strengthen your immune system.
Regularly monitor health conditions like hypertension and diabetes.
Reducing Healthcare Strain:
Overburdened hospitals can turn health emergencies into full-blown disasters. Proactive health management helps avoid unnecessary strain on resources.
How to Get Involved in Disaster Preparedness in Clarendon
If you’re ready to contribute to Clarendon’s preparedness efforts, there’s a place for you!
Contact Stacy-Ann Henningham at 876-853-1407 to organise a workshop, training session, or community drill.
Join your local Community Disaster Risk Management Group or help start one if none exists in your area.
As Councillor Williams put it:
“A healthy nation is a wealthy nation. Let’s keep Clarendon clean, safe, and strong.”
Looking Ahead
Mark your calendars for Tuesday, February 27th, at 8 pm, when we turn our attention to the Public Health & Sanitation Committee. Learn how the Parish is tackling waste management, improving sanitation services, and ensuring a cleaner Clarendon.
Let’s continue to work together to build a resilient, thriving parish.
Stay Connected
Don’t miss out on future forums! Subscribe to the Serenity Resource Connector Blog at www.serenityresourceconnector.com for weekly updates, event schedules, and tips for making a difference in your community.
Together, we can shape a safer, healthier, and more united Clarendon.
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