WILLEMSTAD - On Thursday, May 30th, members of the ‘Crisis Management and Disaster Response Organization’ (CRBo) gathered for an exercise in preparation for the hurricane season. The hurricane season annually runs from June 1st to November 30th.
The CRBo of Curaçao is a multidisciplinary team responsible for mitigating the effects of crises or disasters, thus safeguarding public safety, health, vital interests, and the environment.
The CRBo consists of 10 Emergency Support Functions (ESF) and their liaisons, which include the Police, Fire Department, Ambulance Services, BT&P, WJZ, Aqualectra, Public Works Services, Ministry of Social Affairs and Labor, Directorate of Communication and Information, Ministry of Justice, Ministry of Economic Development, Coast Guard, Meteorological Department, Ministry of Health, Environment and Nature, Red Cross, CITRO, and the Volunteer Crisis Center Assistants.
During the exercise held last Thursday, the processes of the disaster plan were reviewed for dealing with the impacts of a hurricane, such as flooding and the potential failure of power or telecommunications services. Each ESF/Liaison provided an update on their preparations for the hurricane season starting in June 2024.
The disaster team has been actively coordinated by the Directorate of Risk Control and Disaster Management (DRR), which was also responsible for the exercise coordination. This exercise provided an opportunity for the new fire department commander, Mr. Tromp, who is the operational leader during a crisis or disaster, to guide and coordinate the disaster team during the exercise and to achieve the stipulated objectives. The exercise was successful, training various processes related to crisis or disaster management.
From June 3 to June 8, 2024, the DRR will organize the second edition of the awareness week for disaster preparedness called “Preparedness Week,” which will culminate with the 'Prepare Now Expo' event on June 7 and 8 at Sambil. During the 'Prepare Now Expo' in the Exhibition Hall of Sambil, various organizations will inform and demonstrate to the people of Curaçao the work they perform during a crisis or disaster. The public will also receive all necessary information to better prepare for the effects of a crisis or disaster.
The team urges everyone in preparation for the 2024 hurricane season to:
Ensure you have a disaster plan at home in case of a hurricane threat;
Check emergency equipment and battery-operated devices like radios, flashlights, and cell phones. Ensure extra batteries are available;
Stock up on non-perishable food and sufficient drinking water (3 liters per person per day) for 3 days;
Trim trees and plants around the house and clean your yard, as debris can cause damage to your home.