He said there should be “more” involvement on the part of the business sector because if it cannot function after any calamity, more harm will be inflicted on the people.
During the Multi-Cultural Day presentation on disaster preparedness at the Multi-Purpose Center in Susupe yesterday, Shankweiler said the Saipan Chamber of Commerce now emphasizes the role that the business sector plays in a disaster preparedness program.
“Being prepared is very important and that is our message to you,” Shankweiler told representatives of the community, the Department of Public Safety, EMO, the American Red Cross, the Department of Public Health and the Division of Environmental Quality.
Last week, a team led by Shankweiler conducted a full-scale tsunami evacuation exercise at William S. Reyes Elementary School.
He said they have also implemented disaster preparedness activities at Kagman, Garapan, Oleai, Gregorio T. Camacho and Koblerville elementary schools.
It is very important that children know what to do during a disaster, he said.
Capt. Dolores San Nicolas of the Department of Public Safety told participants to “save first yourself and don’t try to help if you are not certified and qualified.”
Representative from the American Red Cross, DEQ and Public Health also conducted presentations.
Public Health discussed the pandemic flu caused by a new and deadly virus that spreads from person to person.
Yesterday’s activity was sponsored by EMO and the U.S. Department of Homeland Security.
