Ronald Jackson, director general at the Office of Disaster Preparedness and Emergency Management (ODPEM), has said that a curfew order has been issued for all major towns in light of the impending hurricane.

The curfew order took effect at 6 p.m. yesterday.

Jackson said that the decision was taken during an emergency meeting at the Office of the Prime Minister yesterday to bolster the country for the impact of Tropical Storm Sandy which is expected to develop into a category 1 hurricane later today.

"There can be looting. Typically when we have this sort of situation (therefore) significant issue coming out of the meeting was to have a curfew of the major towns.

"People will be allowed to go home, but beyond a certain time in the nights, going into midnight, movements will be curtailed. The security personnel will put in place their presence to ensure there is law and order while people head home, batten down and stay tuned."

Additionally, the ODPEM director general said that priorities would be given to southern coastal areas where the hurricane is expected to make its landfall.

"Portland Cottage, Old Harbour Bay, sections of Kingston going towards Bull Bay, along the Sandy Gully where we have informal settlements …, Pedro Cays and all these areas are going to be given priority," Jackson said.

Meanwhile, Glenmore Hinds, deputy commissioner of police in charge of the operations portfolio, said the police have increased the deployment of personnel from the Mobile Reserve to maintain public order and safety.

Hinds also said the police will react swiftly to protect life and property in the event of criminal activities.

nedburn.thaffe@gleanerjm.com

Evacuation tips

Minimise the distance you must travel to reach a safe location.

Select the nearest possible evacuation destination, preferably within your local area, and map out route.

Choose the home of the closest friend or relative outside a designated evacuation zone, or go to a public shelter or hotel outside of the vulnerable area.

Contact your local emergency management office to register or get information.

Prepare your home prior to leaving by boarding up doors and windows, securing or moving indoors all yard objects, and turning off all utilities.

Before leaving, fill your car with gas and withdraw extra money from the ATM.

Take all prescription medicine and special medical items such as glasses and diapers.

If your family's evacuation plan includes a boat or trailer, leave early.

If you are ordered by local officials to evacuate, do so as quickly as possible. Don't delay.