The CARIB WAVE annual tsunami exercise is being conducted to improve tsunami preparedness efforts throughout the Caribbean and adjacent regions.

The National Emergency Management Organization (NEMO) will coordinate its annual Tsunami Simulation Exercise on Thursday March 20, to test Saint Lucia's warning systems, response and communication processes. 

During this exercise, the public will receive electronic alerts that will inform on the approach of a tsunami. The simulation exercise will also test the emergency response of three schools in the Castries area.

BE REMINDED, THESE ALERTS ARE PART OF A SIMULATION EXERCISE.
NEMO does not wish to incite undue panic. If you receive a tsunami alert on March 20, please do not panic. 

The National Emergency Management Organization encourages the public to participate. Your feedback will be useful to improving Saint Lucia’s preparedness and response.

TSUNAMI PREPAREDNESS TIPS
In the case of a tsunami, here are some basic things to know know.

Before a tsunami:

• Find out if your home is in a vulnerable area by finding out the distance it is from the coast.
• If you live in a low-lying area – for instance near to the beach – identify the quickest way to get to high ground. A safe area would be at least 30m (100feet) above sea level and 3km ( 2miles) inland. Teach and practice your evacuation plan with all family members.
• Ensure that all family members can recognize natural tsunami signs as timely, official Tsunami Warnings may not be possible.
• Discuss tsunamis with your family and friends. Everyone needs to know what to do in case all members are not together.
• Emergency supplies and equipment such as canned foods, medication, flashlights, battery-powered radios, clean water and First Aid kits should be readily available and working properly.

During a tsunami:

• If you recognize signs of a tsunami - such as a strong earthquake or the sea pulling back significantly from the coastline - leave the area immediately, head for high ground and stay there. Move uphill or at least inland, away from the coast.
• Abandon your belongings. Save your life, not your possessions.
• Do not count on the roads. When fleeing a tsunami caused by a nearby earthquake, you may find roads broken or blocked.
• Sometimes tsunamis may occur without the initial pulling back of the sea. In this case, a massive wall of water may be seen approaching land. If you can see the wave you are already too close to outrun it.
• If you are unable to move to higher ground, go to an upper floor (at least the 3rd storey) or roof of a strong building. As a last resort, climb a strong tree if trapped on low ground.
• If swept up by a tsunami, look for something to use as a raft.
• Expect many waves. The next wave may be bigger, and the tsunami may last for hours.

After a tsunami:

• If possible, stay tuned to a radio or television to get the latest emergency information.
• Help injured or trapped people and call for help if necessary.
• Open windows and doors to help dry buildings.
• Remove mud while it is still moist to give walls and floors an opportunity to dry.
• Check food supply and test drinking water. Fresh food that has come in contact with flood water may be contaminated and should be discarded.
• Check for damage to sewer and water lines.