The Department of Health has reminded the public of key preparedness tips for health and safety as Hurricane Gonzalo approaches.

Water supply safety

• Block your roof gutters with clean rags or other device to prevent any leaves, salt and other contamination from entering your water tank

• Ensure that you have adequate drinking water- at least a 3-day supply (one gallon per person), and water for cooking, bathing and flushing toilets

• After the hurricane, inspect your tank for debris, salt content and other contamination to determine if cleaning is necessary. Boil water before drinking to ensure it is potable (safe for drinking).

Food safety

• Keep food cold- In the event of power outages, have coolers and non-perishable canned goods on hand. Do not open the fridge or freezer. If the power outage is prolonged, prepare a cooler with ice for your perishable food items.

• If in doubt, throw it out- To prevent food-borne illness, perishable foods in the refrigerator should not be above 40 degrees Fahrenheit for more than two hours. If food in the freezer has ice crystals and is not above 40 degrees Fahrenheit you can refreeze.

Personal safety

• Have a plan- Discuss with your family:

?• The location of a strong room in your house as a “safe room”

?• Emergency phone numbers (*see below) and family contacts, particular the elderly

?• The appropriate tools to be kept nearby, including a First Aid Kit and hand sanitizer

?• The location of electrical/gas/water shut-offs and how and when to shut them off

?The safety of your pets

• Listen to the Emergency Broadcast station on 100.1 MHz. Follow instructions if ordered to evacuate.

• Ensure that you and your family members have all required medications and health management supplies

• Stay away from windows and doors.

• Stay indoors. The only time you should leave your home is if you HAVE TO evacuate.

• The Emergency Shelter is Cedarbridge School

• After the hurricane passes, go outdoors with extreme caution as there may be dangers such as falling debris, loose power lines, and flooding.

For further details on the topics mentioned, please consult the “Emergency Plan for the General Public” booklet available at emo.gov.bm and health.gov.bm

*Emergency Numbers:

Emergency Measures Organization (EMO) – 295-0011

Ambulance, Fire, Police- 911

Marine Rescue- 911

BELCO- 955

TELCO- 611

Works & Engineering- 295-5151

Bermuda Harbour Radio- 297-1010