Hurricanes pose a significant threat to the islands of the Caribbean. If residents are to weather the storm, the necessary preparation must be carried out. Planning ahead could make the difference between life and death.

Everyone should have an action plan in the event that a hurricane strikes. Each member of the family should know who to contact and where to meet in the event of an emergency. The Barbados Fire Service takes this opportunity to offer these helpful hints to assist in your preparedness for the Hurricane Season (June 1 - November 30).

Fire Safety Tips

• Candles should not be used to provide lighting during a storm or hurricane.
• We recommend the use of battery operated lanterns, these are better as there is no exposed flame.
• All electrical equipment should be turned off and unplugged. Use only battery operated equipment.
• Gas meters and connections to stoves and ovens should be turned off before the arrival of a storm.
• When operating electrical generators, use the appropriate size and type power cords.
• Gasoline powered generators produce carbon monoxide and the fumes can be deadly.
• Use generators outside the home, carbon monoxide fumes can quickly overwhelm you indoors.
• To prevent lightning damage, radio communications equipment should be properly grounded.
• Remove television and radio antennae from roof tops, they can become hazardous during a storm or hurricane.

The most common causes of fire are carelessness, accidental or electrical defects. It is extremely important that every home be equipped with a fire extinguisher and smoke alarms. Smoke alarms provide early warning of fire. Smoke alarms are the easiest, most cost-efficient way to alert your family of a developing fire.

The more smoke alarms you have installed the better. Having a fire extinguisher in your home can increase your chances of keeping a small fire from getting out of control. Using both smoke alarms and fire extinguishers in your home, along with knowing what to do in the event of fire, can save your life.

Whether you live in a house or apartment, the same home safety tips apply! Knowing how to identify potential hazards can help you prevent accidents or injury.