Cyclone risk awareness village 2024

The French Association for the Prevention of Natural and Technological Disasters (AFPCNT) has the mission of promoting a culture of risk and developing the resilience of populations and territories in the face of major risks. It carries out this mission in mainland France and in overseas territories.

In the territory of Saint-Martin, the AFPCNT is represented by a local group which brings together different risk reduction stakeholders: civil society organizations, the Collectivité, government representatives and operators, businesses, construction stakeholders, insurers, etc.
In the context of climate change, extreme weather events, particularly hurricanes, are becoming more frequent and more intense. Hurricane Irma left a deep mark on the territory and demonstrated the need to develop prevention and preparation actions for the Saint-Martin population.

This year, the Association and its local partners are organizing an awareness village on cyclone risk in a multi-risk context. This project aims to raise awareness of this risk among the general public, schoolchildren, tourism professionals and associations, through educational and participatory activities.

The event will be held on Saturday, September 7, 2024 from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. in the Galisbay parking lot. This day will be devoted to role-playing and awareness-raising activities aimed at the population.

For example, participants will be asked to:

- visit stands

- answer quizzes on cyclone risk,

- participate in proximity and interactive sessions aimed at providing information, - adopt good practices and conduct, - participate in the creation of a survival kit.

The firefighters will also offer a rescue-clearing demonstration. The Saint-Martin boaters' association will present the best practices for boaters during cyclones.

A wide variety of activities will be offered on the stands of local partners: the Collectivité of Saint-Martin, the prefecture of Saint-Martin, the Territorial Unit of Saint-Martin of DEAL, the Economic, Social and Cultural Council of Saint-Martin (CESC), the building companions, PIRAC, the Antilles Guyana Insurers Committee (CAAG), Métimer, the Saint-Martin Nature Reserve, SEMSAMAR, architectural firms and the Saint-Martin Boaters' Association.

Together, let's be ready for the hurricane season by taking responsibility for our own safety!