RADHICA DE SILVA
Ahead of the inclement weather approaching, the executive officer of the Blind Welfare Association, Kenneth Surratt, is calling on everyone in the blind community to get registered with their nearest regional corporation so if they run into trouble, they can get immediate help.
There are over 1,000 registered blind citizens in T&T but since the pandemic, with the increase in non-communicable diseases, there are even more visually impaired and blind people in T&T who are not registered with the association.
Saying the blind community is especially vulnerable as this weather system moves over T&T, Surratt urged everyone to do everything possible to protect themselves prior to, during and after the storm.
“For those who have not done so already, you must ensure that you call your closest regional corporation and get registered. Make sure your surroundings are safe. Become familiar with your surroundings and make yourself comfortable. Ensure that you have vital supplies so if you have to stay indoors for long periods while you wait for help, you are safe,” he added.
He said all blind people must have a transistor radio and called on the media to deliver updates in an audible format so that the blind can hear important information.
“When you are blind and things are happening and you are hearing floods and wind blowing, that could be traumatic. Share information as much as possible for people who are at home,” he added.
Surratt is also calling on the blind community to keep in touch with the association via its WhatsApp number 395-3086.
He said the association will network with other agencies to bring help where needed.
“There is life after this storm, just get prepared and make sure and call the corporation to register,” he added.