National

DRM: Preparation Is Our Greatest Defence

NASSAU, BAHAMAS – For the first time, the National Shelter List includes vital capacity and accessibility details, enabling families to make safer, more informed choices during hurricane season.

Published

6 months ago

June 2, 2025

Delvardo Emmanuel

NASSAU, BAHAMAS – For the first time in history, the National Shelter List has been updated to include critical capacity and accessibility information, an advancement that empowers families to make safer, more informed decisions during hurricane season.

Leon Lundy – Minister of State, Office of the Prime Minister, emphasized the importance of this data-driven approach to disaster preparedness:

“This data collection allows us not only to plan better, but also to identify and address shelter gaps across the entire country. I’m especially proud to announce that the landmark Marsh Harbour Hurricane Shelter will be ready to protect the people of Abaco during this hurricane season.”

The state-of-the-art shelter in Marsh Harbour, Abaco, is more than just a storm refuge. Designed with the community in mind, it will also serve as a year-round community hub during calmer times.

“Purpose-built to withstand winds in excess of 200 miles per hour, this shelter has passed all Ministry of Works inspections and is ready to serve the great people of Abaco,” said Minister Lundy.

Further strengthening the nation’s disaster response infrastructure, the government has also rolled out upgrades that include new satellite phones and Starlink technology to ensure reliable communication across the islands, even during catastrophic weather events.

Another groundbreaking development is the launch of a new disaster alert system, modeled after the U.S.-based AMBER Alert-style system known as Marco’s Alert. This system will push real-time, critical information directly to mobile devices.

“This means critical warnings, watches, and evacuation orders can now be sent directly to your mobile devices, enabling faster action and saving lives,” explained Minister Lundy.

With hurricane season already upon us, Minister Lundy is calling on every Bahamian household to take responsibility:
“Know your shelter, secure your home, and have a family plan in place.”

The Disaster Risk Management (DRM) Authority has also issued a firm reminder to the public:
“The government is not obligated to endanger the lives of first responders to rescue individuals who choose to ignore official evacuation instructions. If you stay behind, please remember you do so at your own risk.”

As the country braces for another potentially active hurricane season, these upgrades reflect the government’s commitment to safeguarding lives and strengthening community resilience across the archipelago.