The BVI Health Services Authority (BVIHSA) urges the Community to be prepared and stay prepared this hurricane season by taking the following precautions:

• Ensure that there is at least 2 weeks of clean drinking water available for all members of your family;
• Secure at least 2 weeks of dry and canned food items;
• Secure at least 2 weeks of powdered formula for infants;
• Ensure that all infant bottles are sterilized and securely kept in zip-locked bags;
• Ensure that you have at least 2 weeks supply of all prescribed medications secured in plastic bags;
• Ensure that you know and have documented all the names and doses of medications, and how often you take each medication;
• Ensure that first aid kits are stocked and easily accessible;
• Secure and get rid of all objects and debris that can be used as missiles during a storm;
• All persons should know the nearest available shelters.

Expectant mothers should consider the following:

• All pregnant women, more than 28 weeks (7 months), should have their bags packed and ready;
• Pregnant women 28 weeks (7 months) or more, who are on sister islands (Virgin Gorda, Anegada, Jost Van Dyke etc), should strongly consider being on the main island (Tortola) in anticipation of a hazard impact. They should have a plan to get to the Hospital if they need to;

Dialysis patients are advised of the following:

• Persons that have Dialysis scheduled on the day of the anticipated disaster (storm/hurricane), are advised to go to the Peebles Hospital Dialysis Unit the day before the storm.  ALL patients will receive notification on your scheduled time;
  • Please note that your dialysis session will be shortened to accommodate all patients
• Persons scheduled for Dialysis on days after the storm, can proceed to the Dialysis Unit if it is safe to do so.  If for some un-foreseen reason, the Dialysis Unit is unable to provide services, a notification bulletin would be made on all available media (social media, radio, etc.) regarding alternate arrangements;
• If after the storm you are unable to go to the Dialysis Unit, you are advised to carefully monitor your water intake restriction and your salt intake.  Please use the recommended 3 day meal plan which was provided.  It is reasonably safe to do so during the first 3 days after the storm;
• Ensure that you have at least 2 weeks of medications secured in plastic bags and readily available;
• As these are extreme circumstances, please be patient with Dialysis Staff.

​Be Prepared, Stay Prepared