Department of Health issues advisory amid tropical storm watch

With a tropical storm watch now in effect for Jamaica, the Department of Health and Wellness has sent out a statement advising the public that as preparations continue for the impending adverse weather conditions, the following precautions should be taken taken regarding food and water safety, people with chronic illnesses and pregnant women:

Food safety

• Do not store foods containing chemicals such as kerosene, bleach, detergents and bug sprays.
• Do not purchase/use food in cans that show signs of dents, bulges, or other damage.
• Store foods in a dry, cool place and keep packages of sugar, flour, rice and crackers in their original packaging or in tightly sealed containers.
• Keep a bag with emergency supplies in case you have to evacuate your home. This should include canned and dry foods only.

Water safety

• Store water in a clean, covered container. The lid of the container should fit snugly to prevent mosquito breeding.
• Do not use containers that have previously stored harmful chemicals. Use a clean container, with a handle, to “draw up” the storage water.

People with chronic illnesses, are pregnant

People with chronic conditions such as diabetes, high blood pressure, heart disease and asthma are reminded to have an adequate supply of medication and, if they must evacuate their homes, to ensure that they take their medication with them to their place of residence. shelter.

They should continue to take their medications as prescribed by the doctor, while away from home.

All pregnant women who are less than a month away from their due date should move to family members or friends who are close to a hospital or birthing center.

Please note that public hospitals will remain open to accept emergency cases.

Evacuation

If you must evacuate your home, certain items must be taken when disaster threatens

• Medical supplies: prescriptions, drugs and dentures
• Disaster supplies: flashlights, batteries, radio, first aid kit, bottled water, clothing and bedding
• Sanitary supplies: diapers, toilet paper, soap, feminine hygiene products
• Non-perishable foods: canned foods and dry foods
• Special foods: foods for diabetics or for babies
• Important family documents: birth, marriage and death certificates, passports, land titles, passports, vaccination records.
• Hobbies: games and books.

For more information, please contact the Department of Health and Wellness’s Emergency Operations Center at 888-ONE-LOVE (888-663-5683).