ODPEM disaster response begins

The Office of Disaster preparedness and emergency Management (ODPEM) said it would today be activating its disaster response systems in preparation for the effects of Gustav.



Director General of the ODPEM, Ronald Jackson, said most of its attention would be focused on the island’s north coast.



He said additional response systems would be activated based on today’s weather forecasts.



Yesterday prime minister, Bruce Golding met with members of the National Disaster Committee to review the country’s state of readiness.



Following that meeting, it was revealed that the country’s emergency services are on full alert and that more than 140 shelters have been prepared and shelter managers identified.



Mr. Golding said the national emergency operation centre would be operational as of today.