Kingston and St Andrew Municipal Corporation (KSAMC) on Monday moved its disaster preparedness into high gear in readiness for the adverse weather which is expected to impact the island.

The KSAMC convened a meeting of its Local Parish Disaster Inter-Agency Committee to provide an update on the preparedness and emergency response in light of the weather threat.

The meeting was attended by key stakeholders including representatives of the National Water Commission, National Works Agency, Jamaica Public Service Company, Jamaica Fire Brigade, Jamaica Urban Transit Company, National Solid Waste Management Authority, and the Jamaica Constabulary Force.

The meeting sought to ascertain the level of readiness of all agencies so as to ensure the safety and protection of all residents in the municipality, especially the most vulnerable, should the weather impacts the island.

Chief executive officer of the KSAMC Robert Hill explained the need for the meeting which formed part of discussions and consultations with partners and stakeholders across the municipality.

“This morning’s [Monday] meeting forms part of our usual coordinated response where we pull the relevant agencies together to ensure the most appropriate course of action for the safety of our residents,” said Hill.

He was supported by Mayor of Kingston Andrew Swaby who also commented on the importance of this proactive approach taken by the KSAMC.

“As usual, we have to be proactive and prepared; we want to ensure that our residents are prepared and up to date and listen to the advisories. I want to ensure that our agencies continue to work in partnership with each other, public spaces and business places are protected and that all our residents remain safe,” said Swaby.

He noted that all agency partners had implemented their respective disaster risk mechanisms, which included mobilisation of their teams, clearing of debris and strategic positioning of equipment such as tractors and bulldozers in high-risk areas among other disaster mitigation efforts.

Swaby pointed out that the KSAMC’s Emergency Operation Centre at 65 Hanover Street, Kingston — which manages all emergency shelters across Kingston and St Andrew — was also activated.

Additionally KSAMC’s Poor Relief Department started plans for a safe haven for persons experiencing homelessness and other vulnerable groups.