As part of National Disaster Awareness Week, tsunami drills were held in several villages in Taveuni.

The National Disaster Management Office hopes this will enhance disaster preparedness in all communities and reduce damage and losses.

Fijians in Lavena, Taveuni successfully carried out a tsunami drill yesterday, which saw the participation of almost 350 villagers. This was the first-ever drill undertaken in a rural community.

Lavena Villager Marica Viema says the people are grateful for the drills and awareness programs conducted in their area.

“The training and the exercise conducted today I know will enable our families here in Lavena be better prepared for natural disasters, should they occur.”

Acting Director NDMO Litiana Bainimarama says a tsunami drill was also held in Somosomo today and other neighbouring villages adding that the exercise was hailed a success as people made it to their safe zones well ahead of the estimated time.

“We found the feedback has been great, its brought to the forefront of the communities just how vulnerable they are to tsunami’s and how they appreciate the fact of having a community tsunami evacuation plan, a community disaster plan and just bring to the forefront just how vulnerable they are and that they should be prepared should an event such as a tsunami occur in their community.”

Meanwhile, Fiji is ranked the tenth highest disaster-prone country in the world and Tropical Cyclone Winston serves as an example of the risks we face.