Regions 3, 5, 6 residents being secured ahead of spring tide

̶ CDC prepares residents for Oct. 25 unusually high tide

DPI, Guyana, Thursday, October 24, 2019

Coastal Communities are better prepared in light of the upcoming high tide as the Civil Defence Commission (CDC) embarked on a sensitisation exercise in several communities in Regions 3, 5 and 6.

The high tide, which is expected to begin tomorrow, will see water levels rising in several vulnerable areas along the coast.

In a recent advisory issued by the CDC, during the October 25-30, 2019 period, the unusually high tides will peak at 3.31 metres.

Today, the teams distributed sandbags, along with sand, to residents in various communities in the regions for protection from a potential overtopping of the sea defences and to mitigate any possible damage. They also distributed informational flyers and briefed residents on when to expect the high tides and the necessary precautionary measures to take in the event of flooding.

Speaking to the Department of Public Information (DPI), Member of Parliament and Region 5 Representative, Jennifer Wade, said the CDC’s efforts are much appreciated. She noted that residents were caught off-guard when the spring tides hit a few weeks ago, but due to CDC’s efforts, “it will be able to cushion the impact.”

Michael Gilgous, a resident of Region 5, welcomed the assistance. “The sandbags will be very useful as some houses are flat so it will be used to prevent water from entering persons’ homes,” he said. Another Region 5 resident, Lola Daniels, said: “We are preparing because we were warned, and we are trying to put things in place.”

The CDC, along with the Ministry of Public Infrastructure, has been strengthening sea and river defences, sensitising coastal residents and bringing relief to affected citizens.

Residents living along the coastline in Regions 2, 3, 4, 5 and 6 are advised to take the following precautions to minimise damage to property and prevent any health hazard.

– Report any sea defence breaches.

– Place sandbags where needed.

– Unplug all electrical items.

– Place all essential documents in sealed plastic bags or containers and place the same in a safe space.

– Elevate all household furniture and appliances.

– Relocate livestock to higher ground.

– Create containerised storage for drinking and cooking water.

– Use purification tablets as prescribed.

– Ensure children and the elderly stay clear of flooded water.

– Visit the nearest health centre if you experience any skin irritation or feel sick.

The public is also advised to remain alert and aware of the water levels and weather situation at all times. Floods, damage to sea defence and overtopping should be reported to the Civil Defence Commission on (592) 226-1114, 226-8815, 226-1027 or 225-5847, or their 24 Hours National Emergency Monitoring System (NEMS) on (592) 623-1700 and 600-7500.

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