The National Office of Disaster Services is urging residents of Antigua and Barbuda to learn tsunami warning signs and know their evacuation routes as the country marks World Tsunami Awareness Day.

In a message marking the Nov. 5 observance, NODS said the country’s location, surrounded by the Caribbean Sea and Atlantic Ocean, makes awareness and preparedness essential.

This year’s theme is “Be Tsunami Ready: Resilience Starts With You.”

NODS encouraged residents to understand when to move to higher ground, stressing that individuals have a role in protecting their communities.

“Prepared communities save lives,” the office said.

The Caribbean Disaster Emergency Management Agency also called on communities across the region to prepare household emergency plans and act quickly when danger threatens.

CDEMA identified strong or prolonged ground shaking, an unusual rise or fall in sea level and a loud ocean roar as natural warning signs.

Anyone who observes these signs should move immediately to higher ground or inland without waiting for an official warning, the agency said.

This article was originally published by Antigua News Room. Read the original article here: NODS urges Antigua and Barbuda residents to know tsunami warning signs.