15 Nov 2016

Vanuatu Red Cross opens new disaster facilities

12:27 pm on 15 November 2016

Vanuatu's Red Cross has opened a new storage facility for relief supplies for any future disaster.

Vanuatu Red Cross workers load relief supplies brought in on a NZAF Hercules. Much needed tarpaulins, water containers and health and sanitation kits were being stored until further notice was given from the NDMO

Vanuatu Red Cross workers load relief supplies delivered by air after Cyclone Pam in March 2015 Photo: RNZI / Koroi Hawkins

The disaster management coordinator, Augustine Garae, said the Red Cross has decided to pre-position relief supplies in the country's six provinces, instead of rushing to buy them after a disaster.

Mr Garae said a main storage facility in the capital, Port Vila, would be used as a forwarding base.

Supplies at the facilities include water containers, building and gardening tools, first aid kits, tarpaulins and bedding.

Mr Garae said the facility would help assist hundreds of households in the event of a disaster.