Some residents have started to occupy emergency shelters in preparation for Hurricane Irma.

According to the Department of Disaster Management (DDM), the New Testament Church of God Emergency Shelter, located in Baugher’s Bay, Tortola, is already receiving persons ahead of the hurricane.

The other opened Emergency Shelters are the Methodist Church, North Sound, Virgin Gorda; St. Ursula’s Catholic Community Centre, The Valley, Virgin Gorda; East End/Long Look Community Centre, Tortola; West End Community Centre, Tortola; St. Georges Anglican Church, Road Town, Tortola; and Claudia Creque Educational Centre, Anegada.

Premier Hon. Dr. D. Orlando Smith has been encouraging persons to make sure that they have an emergency kit, well stocked with water, batteries, battery operated radio, flashlights, medications and non-perishable items.

“We cannot say how long the impact will last, but we recommend that you have food and water for a minimum of three days.”

He said that it is also important that persons make it their business to find out the name and location of the nearest emergency shelter to them, in case they need to evacuate.

This information is available online or persons can contact the Department of Disaster Management directly on 468-4200.