Portsmouth, Dominica - Achieves Tsunami Ready Recognition Certification
Portsmouth, Dominica, has officially achieved the esteemed Tsunami Ready Recognition Certification! This significant milestone not only highlights the community's commitment to safety but also positions the town as an example in disaster preparedness and education for Dominica.
What is Tsunami Ready?
The Tsunami Ready program is an initiative by the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) and is supported by the International Tsunami Information Center (ITIC). It aims to enhance tsunami preparedness and response efforts in coastal communities worldwide. To achieve this certification, communities must meet specific criteria, including:
Community Education: Residents must have access to information about tsunami risks and the necessary steps to take in case of a tsunami warning.
Emergency Planning: Development of emergency plans that clearly outline evacuation routes and procedures, ensuring every resident knows how to respond effectively.
Warning Communication: Implementation of a reliable warning system, which includes utilizing local media and community warning networks to disseminate information quickly and efficiently.
Drills and Exercises: Regular tsunami drills involving the community to ensure everyone is familiar with evacuation routes and procedures.
Why This Recognition is Important
With Portsmouth’s coastal location, preparing for tsunamis is of utmost importance. Achieving the Tsunami Ready designation demonstrates the community’s proactive efforts to safeguard lives and property from tsunami threats. This certification allows us to:
Increase Awareness: Educate residents and visitors about tsunami risks and safety measures, fostering a culture of preparedness.
Strengthen Community Resilience: Creation of well-established evacuation routes and effective communication strategies helps the community to become more resilient to the impacts of natural disasters.
Encourage Participation: Engaging the community through drills and educational workshops builds a sense of teamwork and shared responsibility in disaster preparedness.
The Office of Disaster Management extends gratitude the Mayor Her Worship Kerry Breedy Prince, her team and the town Council, the Commonwealth of Dominica Police Force -Portsmouth Station, Dominica Fire and Ambulance Services, the Portsmouth Community Disaster Team, Principals and Students of all the Schools, the Business community and residences all played a vital role in reaching this goal.
Portsmouth’s Tsunami Ready Recognition Certification is a significant achievement toward building a safe and resilient future in Dominica
Watch the official Tsunami Ready Portsmouth Dominica video on YouTube or Facebook
