Snapshots of the Hurricane Season 2010: Impacts and Lessons Learnt Annual Caribbean Conference on Comprehensive Disaster Management A. L. Dawn French Director NEMO/Saint Lucia BSc [Hons], MA [EPDC], PgD [RCDM]

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New DCA guidelines Story By Sant Justin/HTS November 22, 2010 The Development Control Authority has for sometime been hampered by a lack of resources. Due to their shortcomings- the body has been unable to enforce building codes that determine a number of factors including building purpose and occupancy. DCA Chairman - Clem Bobb - says one of the main problems was monitoring projects after they have been approved. The DCA’s chairman linked a lot of the damage caused by Tomas to compromised drawings and their approvals. Bobb says the issue of water storage – for example - is one that could’ve been avoided if the legislation was adhered to. The necessity of having a water catchment or storage unit is stipulated by law. Bobb says the Ministry of Finance has promised additional resources to the DCA for enforcement of the building legislation. The DCA Chairman says the focus will be on water storage in future construction plans. New stipulations will include the requirement of completion certificates to receive water and electricity services. The DCA says the new stipulations are expected to save lives and prevent further damage to property- while they address illegal developments. Lessons

THE KEY IS: 1) KNOW THE DISASTER HISTORY OF YOUR REGION 2) KNOW YOUR COMMUNITY Lessons

Discuss the hazard with your family. Prepare a disaster plan. Know the safe zones. Prepare an evacuation plan. Don’t forget your pets! Lesson