Grand Cayman, 9 June 2022 – The Department of Environmental Health (DEH) led members of the Initial Clearance and Debris Management (ICDM) Committee on a tour of the potential debris sites, as part of the Hurricane Preparedness Plan for the current hurricane season.  

 Chairman of the ICDM Committee, Assistant Director DEH Solid Waste, Mr. Michael Haworth explained the importance of these sites. “These sites are vital in the aftermath of a storm, hurricane or other disaster. They provide support to all our communities by providing local sites to help persons clear their debris. The sites will be operated by DEH and its partners so that debris materials can be managed appropriately and safely”, he said.

Once assessed, the sites were rated based on their suitability as good, medium and poor and will be presented to the National Emergency Operation Centre for final approval. The activation of these debris sites will be announced as it becomes necessary. 

The DEH remind members of the public of the critical role they play to limit the potential damage to their homes during natural disasters by decreasing the amount of debris and minimize the impact of storm or hurricane damage:

·         Cut back any trees or branches that contact your house, pool cage, shed or other buildings.

·         Thin foliage so the wind can blow freely through branches, decreasing chances the plant will become uprooted during a storm.

·         Clear your property of any items that could become a projectile during a storm/hurricane, including your garbage bins.

The ICDM committee provides emergency responders access to obstructed areas, then ensures the safe disposition of debris in the case of a severe weather system or hurricane. Among the members of the ICDM committee are representatives of the National Road Authority (NRA), Water Authority Cayman (WAC), Department of Environment (DOE) and the DEH.

For additional information, please contact the DEH at 949-6696, email us at [email protected], visit the DEH’s website at www.deh.gov.ky  or message our Facebook page at https://bit.ly/3LEK55q