Recovering from Hurricane Melissa

2 min read

When a storm passes, the real challenge often begins afterward: cleaning up, restoring normalcy, and supporting one another. Whether it’s a hurricane, tropical storm, or heavy rainfall, recovery takes patience, planning, and community spirit. Here are a few practical tips to help you bounce back safely and effectively.

1. Put Safety First
Before leaving your shelter or returning home, make sure it’s safe. Look out for fallen power lines, broken glass, flooded roads, and unstable trees or buildings. Listen to official updates from the Office of Disaster Preparedness and Emergency Management (ODPEM), the Meteorological Service of Jamaica, and your local authorities before moving around.

2. Check on Family and Neighbours
Once you’ve ensured your own safety, reach out to loved ones, especially the elderly, people with disabilities, and single parents. Communities recover faster when we look out for each other, so lend a helping hand where possible.

3. Document and Report Damage
Take photos or videos of any damage to your property before cleaning up. This will be important for insurance claims or assistance requests. If there are hazards, such as broken power poles or blocked roads, report them to the Jamaica Public Service (JPS), National Works Agency (NWA), or your local parish council.

4. Contact Your Insurance Provider
If your home, vehicle, or business is insured, notify your insurance company as soon as it is possible to do so if there is damage. Keep records of all repairs, receipts, and communication to help with your claim.

5. Clean Up Safely
Wear gloves, boots, and a mask when cleaning debris. Avoid touching downed electrical wires and exercise caution when clearing trees or roofing materials. Throw away food that has spoilt due to power outages and be mindful of mosquito breeding in standing water.

6. Guard Your Mental Health
Storms can leave emotional scars. Don’t hesitate to talk to someone if you feel stressed or anxious. You can contact your church, community support groups, or the Mental Health and Suicide Prevention Helpline at 888-639-5433 for support.

Recovering from Hurricane Melissa will not be easy, but Jamaicans have always shown resilience and unity in tough times. Let us help each other. Together we will rebuild.

Click or type https://www.jngroup.com/tips-for-your-safety-during-a-storm/ into your browser for advice from our JN member companies to protect you during this period.