JDF urges communities to clear open spaces to support relief operations

The Jamaica Defence Force (JDF) is appealing to residents in communities hardest hit by Hurricane Melissa to assist with the clearing of debris from football fields, community centres, and other large open spaces to facilitate the safe landing of helicopters conducting search-and-rescue missions and delivering humanitarian aid.

The JDF says in the aftermath of the hurricane, several areas remain inaccessible by road, and aerial operations have become critical to reaching affected residents with emergency supplies and medical assistance.

It says clearing these spaces will greatly expedite the delivery of aid and ensure that search and rescue teams can operate more effectively.Residents are not to take undue risks and exercise caution during clean-up efforts and to avoid downed power lines, unstable structures, and flooded areas.

Acting Chief of Defence Staff Brigadier O’Neil Bogle, emphasised the importance of community partnership at this critical time.

“Every minute counts. By helping to clear these open spaces, citizens are directly supporting lifesaving operations. The Jamaica Defence Force stands with the people of Jamaica, and asks for the continued effort of everyone to ensure that relief gets to those who need it, as quickly and safely as possible.”

The JDF says it continues to coordinate with the Office of Disaster Preparedness and Emergency Management (ODPEM), Ministry of Labour and Social Security, and other national agencies to restore access and deliver essential aid in affected areas.

Follow The Gleaner on X, formerly Twitter, and Instagram @JamaicaGleaner and on Facebook @GleanerJamaica. Send us a message on WhatsApp at 1-876-499-0169 or email us at onlinefeedback@gleanerjm.com or editors@gleanerjm.com.