What’s the worst that could happen to you in the event of disaster?

Money Matters BVI, in partnership with the Department of Disaster Management (DDM) has launched an awareness campaign ahead of the start of the hurricane season. The Rainy Day campaign, which speaks primarily to financial preparedness, urges persons to build their emergency fund and ensure that they are adequately insured.

Khiayah Doward, of Money Matters BVI expressed that financial preparedness is an important part of disaster preparedness. 

“Too often persons are underprepared when disaster strikes. Whether it’s a hurricane, flood, tsunami, or some unforeseen circumstance, we want you to be ready. Your financial well-being depends on it. Don’t just think ‘What’s the worst that could happen?’, consider the possibility of the worst happening to you and how you can help to prevent it.’” 

Information and Education Manager at the Department of Disaster Management, Ms. Philomena Robertson echoes the importance of financial preparedness. Ms. Robertson says, “Investing in disaster preparedness activities today can translate into significant savings or reduction in losses later. Every dollar invested in disaster risk reduction saves you many more in economic losses should a disaster occur.”

Ms. Robertson added, “There is no room for complacency in disaster preparedness; we have been very fortunate in the BVI but we have to consider the emerging hazards that are affecting our communities and the worst case scenarios that can occur and try to determine how we can best recover quickly.”

By raising awareness and urging people to Be ready, Start early, Start now, both organisations hope that persons will protect their assets and investments by proactively preparing in the event of disaster.

Look out for information on the websites and Facebook pages of both organisations. Information will also be shared via radio, television and online.