Disaster relief agency urges public to follow imperative life-saving measures to avert disaster

Contact: Jill Watson, Communications Manager, 305-448-5111, 305-590-1818, jill.watson@malteser-international.org

MIAMI, Oct. 6, 2016 /Christian Newswire/ -- Malteser International Americas, the Miami-based global humanitarian organization whose mission is to empower the most vulnerable and marginalized to live with dignity, is urging all families to heed hurricane warnings and follow life-saving hurricane preparedness measures now, as Hurricane Matthew targets Florida's East coast and makes landfall on Thursday. If the hurricane remains on its current path it promises to bring disastrous rain, gale force winds and flooding to the Sunshine State.

"We dedicate ourselves to helping people in times of trouble in the Americas and all over the world, and now we turn to the eastern shores of the United States, as families brace for what could be a disaster of major proportions," said Ravi Tripptrap, Executive Director of Malteser International Americas. "Every household should know what to do before, during, and after a hurricane, and not take Hurricane Matthew lightly."

Bringing their commitment to disaster preparedness and response closer to home, Malteser International Americas is encouraging every family in the path of Hurricane Matthew to follow their life-saving Hurricane Preparedness Tips, which are available in English and Spanish, or on the publications page of their website at orderofmaltarelief.org.

Having responded to disasters in the Americas and around the globe, the disaster relief agency's guide of recommended protocols to follow before, during, and after a storm include:

• EDUCATION: Know and monitor the early warning systems available (on radio, TV, internet, cell phone); Have knowledge of the closest government-designated shelter and of your evacuation routes.
   
• EVACUATION: Ensure your vehicle is fueled-up and your evacuation carry-on emergency kit is ready in case you need to leave (keep it light: ID, small valuables, cell-phone, radio, flashlight, spare batteries, maps, whistle, energy food & water, small first-aid kit, essential medicines, prescription glasses, adequate clothing and shoes).
   
• HIBERNATION: Store food, water, medical supplies and other basic commodities before the hurricane (to last up to 3 days); Secure your possession/house against high winds: garden/patio tables & chairs and other outdoor furniture, motorbikes, bicycles, signs, fences, doors, gates, external lights; rain gutters, trim dead branches from nearby trees; If your house has no shutters, plan to tape or board your windows to prevent shattering, secure your doors against high winds.

Florida Governor Rick Scott announced a State of Emergency as the eye of the Category 4 hurricane slashed through Haiti early Tuesday morning, unleashing 145 MPH winds and nearly 40 inches of rain in the already impoverished and vulnerable country.

Continuing their commitment to help those who are suffering in times of disaster, Malteser International Americas yesterday announced emergency relief measures for Haitians following the hurricane's destruction and is urging continued donations: orderofmaltarelief.org/donations.

About Us: Malteser International Americas is a global humanitarian organization with a mission of supporting the vulnerable and marginalized so that they may live a healthy life with dignity. Through our U.S. headquarters, Malteser International Americas provides immediate disaster response and preparedness as well as vital healthcare and nutrition to vulnerable people in North America, Latin America and the Caribbean.