The Office of Disaster Management is urging businesses—especially those in the tourism and hospitality sector—to review their hurricane preparedness plans as the 2026 Atlantic Hurricane Season continues.
National Disaster Coordinator and Fire Chief Clive Richardson says businesses should not become complacent because of the season's quiet start. He is encouraging hotels, restaurants, marinas, tour operators, retailers, and transportation providers to update evacuation procedures, secure important records, confirm insurance coverage, inspect buildings, and ensure staff understand their emergency roles.
Richardson says businesses that prepare now will be better positioned to protect lives, reduce damage, and resume operations more quickly after a storm.
At the same time, the Fire Department is warning residents and businesses to exercise extreme caution as prolonged dry weather has significantly increased the risk of bush fires across St. Martin.
Officials are urging the public to avoid open burning, never discard lit cigarettes or matches outdoors, and clear dry vegetation from around homes and businesses to reduce fire hazards.
The Fire Department says even a small spark can quickly become a major wildfire under current conditions.
Officials are reminding the community that hurricane preparedness and fire prevention both require action before an emergency occurs, not after.