8/9/12 Speaker Topic - VITEMA Service & Operations

The Territory is currently in the midst of the 2012 hurricane season.  The season runs 8 – 9 months each year.  Our speaker, Director Elton Lewis, stated though there has been talk about this being a light season, it is important not to become complacent.  We must also be prepared for other possible disasters besides hurricanes such as fires or a cruise ship mishap.

Now is the time to attend to:

1) Removing debris from homes and businesses – debris can become projectiles;
2) Submitting the application for a current pass if needed.  New Id’s will now have a hologram for each season.
3) Review insurance policies to insure adequate coverage.
4) Having at least one month of cash is advisable.

If you have elderly family members or friends, be sure they are taken care of.  Additionally, a new VI law now mandates taking care of pets responsibly also. 

Director Lewis stressed that the federal agencies such as FEMA and the Army Corps of Engineers, have an excellent relationship with the VI and converse almost daily.  There is a new 72,000 square foot warehouse facility in Puerto Rico which stores commodities dedicated to the VI.  These commodities are identified and stored in containers to be taken to the port in the event of an alert. Ultimately the goal is to establish a facility in the VI also.