The Dominican Republic is located in the trajectory of hurricanes, tropical storms and their consequences, and therefore exposed to natural disasters caused by these phenomena. Additionally, earthquakes may be prone to happening.
In the Dominican Republic, the Center for Emergency Operations (COE) is the government organization responsible for the planning and coordination between different institutions that are part of the National System for the Prevention, Mitigation and Response to Disasters.
Before the hurricane
Consult the Civil Protection authorities to find out if they are in a danger zone.
Protect windows and doors, as well as secure exterior doors and awnings
Secure loose objects on the roof of the house such as antennas, water tanks, or clotheslines
Have a First Aid kit, radio, lamps, batteries, candles, and basic tools
Unplug all electrical appliances
Keep important documents in a waterproof container.
Gather containers to store enough water
Stock up on non-perishable food for several days
Have telephone numbers and local civil protection contacts on hand.
Locate a temporary shelter
During the Hurricane
Stay at home as long as it is safe
Leave the home if the authorities determine so
Do not cross streams or streams formed by rain, either walking in the car
Remain in the shelter until the authorities determine so
After the Hurricane
Make sure all family members are well
Check the conditions of the houses, as well as electrical installations, water and gas pipes.
Inform the authorities if the house was affected
Evacuate stagnant water to avoid mosquito infestations.
Extreme food hygiene measures
Source: Brochure ¿Qué hacer en Caso de un Huracán? (Centro de Operaciones de Emergencia, 2020)
Before an earthquake
Always have a first aid kit, flashlight, radio, and batteries.
Maintain food and water supplies
Make a plan for what to do and where to meet after the shaking has stopped. Locate the safest places in your home.
During an earthquake
Do not evacuate during the earthquake. Stay away from windows, mirrors, or shelves with objects that could fall. Never stand in door frames
If you are driving, park the vehicle as far as possible away from poles and cables. Locate to the side of it, never inside or under the car.
After an earthquake
Proceed to close the gas, water and light supplies.
If there are injuries, ask the authorities for help.
In case you have to evacuate, do not return until you verify the safety of the place.
Do not light matches or electrical appliances until you are sure there is no gas leak.
Do not eat food that has been in contact with broken glass, dust, debris, or any contaminant
Turn on the radio to hear the directions. Avoid getting carried away by text messages or rumors. Use the phone only in emergencies
Source: Instructivo ¿Qué hacer en caso de sismo o terremoto? (Centro de Operaciones de Emergencia, 2022)
