June-November Hurricane season begins: mistakes you should avoid from now on

The hurricane season officially begins in June and extends through November, a period during which the Dominican Republic and the entire Caribbean region must be vigilant for atmospheric phenomena that could develop into storms or hurricanes. Although alerts and recommendations are issued every year, common mistakes persist, jeopardizing the safety of families and communities.

One of the main mistakes is underestimating official warnings.

Another common mistake is not checking the condition of homes, especially roofs, windows, and drainage, which are usually the first points of impact during heavy rains and gusts of wind.

Another common mistake is not having a family emergency plan. Improvising in the middle of a storm can lead to confusion and endanger the most vulnerable, such as children and the elderly. This is compounded by a lack of basic supplies: drinking water, non-perishable food, flashlights, batteries, and medications, which should be readily available before any emergency occurs.

Another common mistake is failing to identify safe shelters or evacuation routes beforehand. In emergencies, time is crucial, and knowing where to go can save lives. Furthermore, using candles during power outages poses a fire risk; rechargeable flashlights or battery-powered lamps are recommended.