Local News
“State of Emergency Declared in U.S. Virgin Islands as Lead and Copper Contamination Found in St. Croix Tap Water
Governor Albert Bryan of the U.S. Virgin Islands has declared a state of emergency on Wednesday after the presence of lead and copper in the tap water of St. Croix was discovered, prompting an advisory against its consumption.
Governor Bryan’s proclamation, inked on Monday, holds immense importance as it unlocks crucial resources and streamlines the emergency response efforts, permitting the U.S. territory to seek federal assistance in dealing with this pressing issue.
As a part of their swift response, the government has also taken the step of instituting price freezes on essential items like bottled water, in an effort to ensure that the local population has access to safe drinking water. This initiative is a collaborative effort between local and federal authorities, who are diligently working to test and monitor the water quality in St. Croix.
The genesis of this concerning situation can be traced back to late September when reports of discolored, reddish-brown water emerged on the island, home to a population exceeding 50,600 individuals. Although officials have cautioned against using this compromised water for drinking or cooking purposes, they have affirmed its safety for showering and general household cleaning needs.
Local News
Governor’s Office Delivers Trauma Risk Management Training to Frontline Officers in Virgin Islands
The Governor’s Office, with support from the Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office, this week delivered Trauma Risk Management (TRiM) training to frontline officers in the Virgin Islands, including members of the Royal Virgin Islands Police Force, prison officers and volunteers from Virgin Islands Search and Rescue (VISAR).
The program is designed to help first responders recognize and manage the psychological effects of traumatic incidents encountered in the course of their duties. Participants received instruction on identifying early signs of stress-related responses and providing peer support following critical events.
According to the Governor’s Office, the training forms part of ongoing efforts to strengthen welfare and resilience within frontline services across the territory.
“By strengthening welfare and resilience within our front line services, we are ensuring that the people who protect us are supported themselves,” the Governor’s Office said in a statement.
Officials thanked participants for their involvement and acknowledged the trainer for leading the sessions.
Trauma Risk Management, commonly known as TRiM, is a peer-support process used in emergency services and military settings to assess and address the mental health impact of traumatic exposure.
Maya Marcellin, Teen Universe British Virgin Islands, departed the territory on Feb. 22 for Nicaragua, where she will compete in the Teen Universe International Pageant.
Marcellin left the British Virgin Islands on Sunday accompanied by family members and supporters as she begins representing the territory in the international competition. The pageant will bring together contestants from several countries to compete in preliminary events leading up to the final show.
Supporters gathered prior to her departure to offer encouragement as she travels to Nicaragua to represent the British Virgin Islands on the international stage.
Governor’s Office Delivers Trauma Risk Management Training to Frontline Officers in Virgin Islands
Maya Marcellin Departs for Teen Universe International Pageant in Nicaragua
Andrea Wilson brings Caribbean colour to the NYFW debut
