KINGSTON, Jamaica —The Office of Disaster Preparedness and Emergency Management (ODPEM), in collaboration with the Earthquake Unit, has developed the earthquake preparedness guidelines for places of worship.

Jamaica experiences approximately 200 earthquakes annually, according to the Earthquake Unit located at the University of the West Indies, Mona.

According to ODPEM, the new initiative aims to provide leaders and members of Jamaica’s faith-based communities with practical tools to enhance resilience and protect lives and property during an earthquake.

It noted that the guidelines are customised to address the specific risks and structural features of religious spaces, which are often large, open areas with minimal protective furniture.

“With 69 per cent of Jamaicans affiliated with faith community (Statistical Institute of Jamaica, 2011), and more than 850,000 people—or roughly 30 per cent of the population—attending weekly worship services (Jamaica Observer), the development of this guide was classified as a national priority. This resource is an essential tool for faith-based organisations to improve their preparedness and response,” ODPEM said.

The guidelines include:

• developing or updating an earthquake preparedness plan;
• conducting annual building inspections and routine maintenance; training members, volunteers, and staff;
• conducting earthquake drills, and establishing effective communication plans.

The earthquake preparedness guidelines for places of worship are available for free download on the ODPEM website as of Monday, July 28, and will also be published on partner platforms, including the Jamaica Information Service (JIS).

Places of worship are being urged to act promptly to strengthen their preparedness and protect their congregations by developing or updating their plans and protocols.