Family Dept. to coordinate water delivery to older adults during planned interruptions

The island Family Department announced that it will coordinate with municipalities and partner organizations to deliver potable water to older adults and licensed care homes impacted by the scheduled service interruptions beginning Friday.

By THE STAR STAFF

The Family Department announced Wednesday that it will coordinate with municipalities and partner organizations to deliver potable water to older adults and licensed care homes affected by the scheduled service interruptions beginning Friday.

Family Secretary Suzanne Roig Fuertes said the agency’s emergency protocols were activated to ensure that vulnerable populations receive essential support throughout the disruption.

“The protection of our older adults does not stop during an emergency,” Roig Fuertes said. “Our team is prepared to respond, guide, and channel the necessary resources so that no older adult is left without something as essential as potable water. We have been present in every previous emergency and will continue to do so whenever necessary.”

The interruption plan will reach seven municipalities, though the information released by the agency did not specify which ones.

Licensed long‑term care homes are required to maintain cisterns or water‑storage systems that allow them to continue operating during service interruptions. Facilities must also activate their emergency plans, maintain reserves of potable water, and report any incidents that arise.

As part of its preparedness guidance, the agency recommended that households store enough water for three to five days, prioritizing consumption, medication needs and essential hygiene.

Operators who require assistance are instructed to contact their corresponding regional office. In the case of apartments or condominium complexes built specifically for independent older adults, known locally as “égidas,” which are not subject to the agency’s licensing process, support will be coordinated with administrators, municipalities and other entities.

The family secretary noted that older adults living independently -- as well as family members, neighbors or caregivers -- may report any need for water, supplies or additional assistance so that deliveries can be arranged.