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January 17, 2024
With the 2024 dry season being declared on January 10, a mere few days later bush fires could be seen along the sides of the highways and in dried plots of land.
According to the Trinidad and Tobago Meteorological Service (TTMS), the 2024 dry season will have suppressed rainfall towards drier than usual conditions in the first half (January to March) of the season followed by wetter than usual for the second half (March to May) for both islands.
The TTMS further stated that Trinidad and Tobago normally has three to eight, seven-day dry spells and one to five, 10-day dry spells in the dry season. For 2024, there is a 70 per cent probability for four to seven, seven-day dry spells and one to three, 10-day dry spells.
Temperatures for the dry season will be above normal seasonal mean, with three to seven cool nights where temperatures can fall below 20° Celsius in Trinidad and 22° Celsius in Tobago during the months of January and February.
As we know, the harsh conditions of the dry season will significantly increase the occurrences of bush fires. This will have detrimental effects on the environment and will lead to lower air quality which will impact both adults and children, especially those who have existing respiratory diseases.
A helpful measure is to wear your face mask as needed. To aid in protecting our homes from the negative impacts of the dry season, the first tip is to conserve, store, and manage your water sources. Stock up on your bottled water for drinking purposes.
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Bush fire prevention tips
If you live in an area that is prone to bush fires, there are several precautions that you can take to prevent harm to you and your family.
- Do not start any small fires around your home as this will grow into larger flames
- Trim trees and discard old branches
- Keep around your home tidy by sweeping up fallen leaves regularly
- Keep lawn and landscaping trimmed low
- Create deliberate fire breaks around your property by clearing all vegetation strategically by ploughing or grading a border that will inhibit the flame
- Create an emergency escape plan just in case you and your family need to exit your home quickly
