Don't Set Up Tarps Now--Residents Warned

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(PLTM) - Residents are being cautioned against erecting tarpaulins to cover their roofless homes, as Hurricane Maria approaches the BVI.

Ms. Sharleen DaBreo, Director of the Department of Disaster Management (DDM), said that they are looking to distribute additional tarps and tents, but residents should refrain from setting up during this time.

"We did get some additional tarps yesterday, but one of the concerns we want to say to the public is that with an approaching system, it will not be a wise thing (to do). So you may want to look at securing whatever plywood you can, if you are going to do any physical works to the structures," she told reporters at a joint press conference today, September 18.

The DDM Director explained that prior to the passage of Hurricane Irma, DDM had over a 1,000 shelter kits, with tarpaulin in the warehouse. However, along with the 640 which came from the United Kingdom (UK), they have all been distributed.

DaBreo said that the Rotary Clubs also brought in shelter boxes yesterday.

"Those are being distributed and they are targeting those individuals who have no homes, but can put those kits (up)...where it can be secured, because we do not want tents outdoor during the passage of the storm, loose tarpaulin flying," she said.

Both DaBreo and Governor Gus Jaspert have acknowledged that there were challenges getting some of the distribution to residents, citing communication issues.

"To be honest we have had challenges getting all of the distribution through to the level that we need to," Governor Jaspert stated.

DaBreo disclosed that additional tents will be coming from the Caribbean Disaster Emergency Management Agency (CDEMA), but due to the pending storm, it is on hold.

Further, 8 containers of supplies came in last evening and will be distributed before Hurricane Maria passes.

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