VI Joins International Earthquake Exercise

Earthquake safety took centre stage as schools, workplaces and families across the Virgin Islands took part in the global ShakeOut exercise October 16.  

Director of Disaster Management Mr. Jasen Penn said approximately 2,650 persons were registered to participate, including 14 schools and day care facilities; 29 Government or Statutory organisations; and a handful of businesses and families. 

Mr. Penn said regular local exercises increase our preparedness. 

“Each time we practise what to do during an earthquake, we are improving our level of readiness to respond to one. This is crucial since earthquakes occur with no warning,” Mr. Penn said. He added that as the magnitude 6.7 earthquake off the coast of Guadaloupe this morning demonstrates, the Caribbean is a seismically active area.

As preparation for the exercise, Department of Disaster Management officers visited the Willard Wheatley Primary School and the East End/Long Look Senior Social Programme to share information about how to prepare for and respond to earthquakes and tsunamis.

“These engagements give us the opportunity to remind persons about drop, cover and hold; discuss how this safety technique can be modified for different situations, and share other ways to improve earthquake safety,” Mr. Penn said.

For tips and advice on how to create an emergency plan, secure your space, and recover after a major earthquake, see the DDM’s Seven Steps to Earthquake Safety at www.bviddm.com/seven-steps-to-earthquake-safety-2/, or call the Department at (284) 468-4200.

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About the Department of Disaster Management:

The Department of Disaster Management was established to protect lives and maintain a resilient, sustainable economy and society by fostering comprehensive disaster management and climate change adaptation as a way of life. The Virgin Islands disaster management programme is accredited by the Emergency Management Accreditation Programme.