Welcome to Sittee River Oasis
We’re excited to welcome you to Sittee River Oasis, a charming and secluded retreat in the heart of Sittee River village. From the moment you arrive, you’ll be captivated by stunning views of the Sittee River, framed by lush greenery and an eco-friendly environment that instantly feels like home.
At Sittee River Oasis, we invite you to fully embrace the tropical lifestyle. Our cozy home is nestled among vibrant jungle foliage, with the sounds of birds filling the air and breathtaking views all around. Whether you’re seeking solitude or spending time with friends and family, this peaceful haven offers the perfect space as your home away from home getaway. Enjoy quiet moments on the veranda, soak in the beauty of nature, and create lasting memories in your own private paradise.
Both Hopkins and Sittee River Village are known as two of the friendliest and safest communities in Belize, offering you a truly relaxing and worry-free stay. Within this manual, you will find everything you need to enhance your experience, including details about our amenities, local attractions, dining recommendations, and curated tips to help you make the most of your time in paradise. An emergency guide is also included for your peace of mind during your stay.
As a full-service private home, we are pleased to arrange personalized services such as private chef experiences, transportation, and custom tours, ensuring every aspect of your visit is seamless and memorable.
If you have any questions or need assistance, please don’t hesitate to reach out to us—we are here to make your visit as enjoyable as possible.
Thank you for choosing Sittee River Oasis. We hope you have a wonderful stay and look forward to making your experience with us truly unforgettable.
Warm regards,
Sittee River Oasis Team
House Manual
CONTACT INFORMATION
WhatsApp is the preferred communication method to contact us should you need anything, at any time. Your onsite contact information is listed below.
Property Host: Stephanie Arnold
Phone: (501) 614-6321
Email: stephaniearnold041@gmail.com
Owner: Contact Information
Email: sitteeriveroasis@gmail.com
WhatsApp: United States: (303) 868- 1731 or Stephanie: (501) 614-6321
EMERGENCY CONTACT
Appendix A
CHECKING-IN
Arrival time: 3:00 PM and 4:00 PM.
Departure time: 11:00 AM and 12:00 PM.
TELECOMMUNICATION
We do not offer phones to guest inside of the house; however, we have WIFI on the property. Please feel free to utilize the internet and contact use via WhatsApp.
Please use this number as a 24-hr. emergency contact.
WIFI DETAILS
JohnsTower | Password: Franklin
ARRIVAL
Check the Property Condition: When you enter and inspect the home briefly. Look for any damages or issues that weren't mentioned in the listing.
Take Photos: If you notice any existing damages or problems, take pictures right away and send them to the host to avoid being blamed later.
Ensure Essentials Are Present: Make sure items like towels, linens, toiletries, and kitchen essentials are available as described.
Make Yourself Comfortable: Unpack, explore the space, and familiarize yourself with the house. Check out the amenities, Wi-Fi password, heating or cooling settings, and emergency exits.
Ask the Host for Local Recommendations: If you have time, ask your host for local spots to visit, good restaurants, or any other helpful tips.
Report Problems: If something is wrong, like a broken appliance or an issue with the property, let the host know immediately.
DEPARTURE
Pack All Your Belongings: Double-check all areas of the property, including closets, drawers, and bathrooms, to ensure you haven’t left anything behind. Don’t forget things like phone chargers, toiletries, and any personal items in common areas.
Clean Up After Yourself: Kitchen: Wash any dishes you’ve used or put them in the dishwasher. Wipe down surfaces, including countertops and the stove, if necessary.
Trash: Take out the trash and place it in the black bin, bottles in recycling bin. Tidy up: Make sure to leave the property in the same condition as you found it (unless otherwise instructed by the host). Appliances/ Electronics: Turn AC units OFF in all rooms, unplug appliances: coffee machine, air-fryer, Turn OFF outdoor fans, unplug bug zappers. Ensure all windows and doors are securely locked before you leave. This may also include locking gates or additional entry points. Leave a Review for the Host: Thanks for staying at Sittee River Oasis. We’d appreciate it if you could leave a review on google and/or the platform used to book your stay. Your feedback helps future guests and us. Hope to see you again soon! Communication Is Key: Be responsive and courteous in your communications with the host throughout your stay.
APPLIANCES/ ELECTRONIC INSTRUCTIONS:
Air Condition Units (AC): Remotes located on walls or the nightstand in each room or on the bedside table. Recommended setting 22-24 (Less Cool) 19-22 (Cool) *To conserve energy, when gone from house, please turn off AC units.
All -in -One Washer/Dryer:
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Instructions are in the cabinet above the unit.
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Detergent is pre-loaded; no detergent needs to be added.
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Do not overload; overfilling may prevent proper operation.
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For best results, use the Quick Wash cycle followed by the Dry Only cycle.
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TELEVISION & STREAMING
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The Smart TV is configured for U.S. viewing and uses Xfinity as the provider.
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An X-VPN app is installed to access U.S. content while in Belize. The VPN is currently set to USA – Denver, CO, but you may change it to another U.S. city or country if preferred.
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Built-in streaming apps such as Amazon Prime Video, Netflix, Hulu, YouTube, and more are available. Guests may sign in using their own streaming accounts.
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Due to regional and licensing restrictions, not all channels or apps may be available or function consistently.
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International guests (Canadian and European) may notice that some home-country channels or apps are unavailable, as the TV is set up for U.S. access.
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TROUBLESHOOTING TELEVISION
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If a channel or app do not load, confirm the VPN is connected.
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Try switching to a different city/state within the VPN.
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Restart the TV and reopen the app.
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If issues persist, please try another available channel or streaming service.
PROPERTY OVERVIEW
HOUSE RULES:
Smoking: Please refrain from smoking inside the house. Smoking is permitted outdoors, but we ask that you dispose of cigarettes responsibly.
Pets: Pets are welcome; however, we recommend not leaving them unattended outside, as we are in a jungle area where wild animals may be present. For their safety, always supervise your pets when they are outdoors.
River Access: The property offers river access via stairs and a dock. Use of the river and dock is at your own risk, and for safety reasons swimming and diving are not allowed. Two paddle boards are provided for guest use, and guests assume responsibility for their own safety while using them.
Wildlife: Sittee River Oasis is in a jungle area and wild animals including snakes, spiders, small and some larger animals roam freely. We kindly ask that you respect the local wildlife by keeping noise to a minimum, maintaining a safe distance, and avoiding any disruption to their natural habitat. We share this beautiful space and appreciate your cooperation in preserving it.
Spiders/Tarantulas: Keep your distance, if outside, leave it be, back away and watch where you step. If you see inside, please don’t kill, unless you have it. Trap it-using a classic glass-and paper trick
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Gently place a container (cup, bowl, etc.) over it
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Slide stiff paper/cardboard underneath
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Carefully carry it outside and release it.
Snakes: Running into a snake can be a little intense, stay calm and follow these steps.
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Don’t Touch/ Don’t Try to Kill: never try to handle a wild snake, this is when bites can happen.
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Stop Moving: Sudden movements can startle the snake
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Slowly Back Away: Most snakes will not chase you; they’d rather be left alone.
Iguana/Frogs: You will spot iguanas around the property! They're totally harmless and cool to watch. They love to sunbathe on rocks or hang out in the trees. Please don’t try to feed or touch them—they're wild animals and best admired from a distance. Frogs, you might find a little frog or two inside the house—especially during the rainy season or after a good evening rain. Don’t worry—they’re harmless and just looking for a cool, safe spot. It’s all part of the Sittee River jungle experience, please do not kill them, remove them using the classic glass-and paper trick.
Coatis: You might spot a family of coatis (pronounced ko-AH-tees) wandering the property. They’re native to Belize and are kind of like jungle raccoons—with long tails, curious noses, and a love for foraging. They're not aggressive, but they are wild animals, so please don’t try to feed or approach them.
Tapir: You might just catch a glimpse of one of Belize’s most unique animals—the Tapir. From time-to-time one will roam the property before sunrise, we call him Steve. Tapir is the largest land mammal in Central America and totally harmless. They’re shy, mostly nocturnal, and love hanging around rivers or forest edges.
Jaguar: Here in Sittee River, we’re in one of the wildest and most biodiverse parts of Belize—and that includes living near jaguar territory. While jaguar sightings are extremely rare, they do roam the nearby forests, especially closer to the Cockscomb Basin Wildlife Sanctuary, just a short drive away. They’re shy, nocturnal creatures and avoid people, but knowing they’re out there adding a little thrill to the jungle experience!
Birds: Our property in Sittee River, Belize, is alive with the vibrant presence of countless birds. From colorful toucans to majestic macaws and many other species, their songs fill the air with peaceful, melodic sounds, creating a truly tranquil and natural paradise
SAFETY INFORMATION
Fire Extinguishers: Mounted on the wall at exit doors
First-aid Kit: Located in Island cabinet closest to the front door
Smoke Detectors: Located in each room
Flashlights: Located in the Island cabinet closest to the front door
Safety Deposit Box: Located in the Island cabinet closest to the front door.
SECURITY SYSTEM
Cameras on the Exterior Perimeter: Surveillance cameras are strategically placed around the property’s perimeter, providing 24/7 monitoring of the outside area. These cameras can capture video footage, potentially deterring anyone from attempting to approach or break into the house.
Automatic Flood Lights: The flood lights around the house are triggered by motion sensors. As someone approaches the property or gets close to the house, the lights automatically turn on. This serves as a deterrent by increasing visibility and making it harder for anyone to operate unnoticed. It also alerts guests or others nearby that there may be movement around the property.
Locks with Keys: Each door in the house is secured with a lock that requires a key to open. This traditional locking system adds a layer of protection by ensuring that only those with the proper keys can gain access to the house and rooms.
ATTRACTIONS/TOURS:
Hopkins/Sittee River Village offers several companies to book activities either inland or marine. You can also explore several attractions and book on your own; if you’d prefer, we’d be happy to customize your visit and help create an itinerary just for you. Here’s a guide to help you choose the best options.
Elton’s Adventure and Tours: Local to Sittee River Village and located across the road from Sittee River Oasis. You can book land, river, or marine tours Facebook: @ Elton Adventures and Tours Email: eltonandrews89@gmail.com Tel: (501) 638.6296
Julian Transportation & Tours: At the core of our company tour and shuttle services are professionalism, reliability, and a commitment to providing enriching travel experiences. Our shuttle drivers and local tour guides are skilled and dedicated. They work hard to make your trip to Belize safe and enjoyable. https://www.belizegroundtransfers.com Located in Hopkins
Happy Go Luckie Tours: A premier tour company tailored for marine charter tours designed perfectly for small groups. Diving expedition, snorkeling pristine reefs, island-hopping and fishing. https://www.hgltours.com -Located in Hopkins
Placencia Martin’s Charters: Located about 1-hour from Sittee River Oasis. Martin’s Charters Specializes in inner reef fishing, fly fishing, island hopping, and cultural excursions like the Monkey River tour. Catering to both small, intimate groups and larger parties. Guests can enjoy fully equipped fishing trips, guided snorkeling adventures, and relaxing island getaways complete with BBQ lunches and breathtaking views.
Mayflower Bocawina National Park: Located off the Southern Highway about 30 minutes north of Sittee River Oasis. The park features five waterfalls, most popular attraction being Antelope Falls, a nearly 1000-foot waterfall with a refreshing pool at the top, Mayan ruins, hiking, zip-lining. There is an entrance fee of $10 BZD per person.
Intensity: vigorous Recommended: For Adults & Children 12+
Bring Along: Repellant, Comfortable Clothing ,Swimwear, Hat, Water Bottle ,TowelHiking Boots or Trail Sneakers
Cockscomb Basin Jaguar Preserve: Located off the Southern Highway about 20 minutes south of Sittee River Oasis. Cockscomb Basin is the world’s only jaguar preserve. Park area is rich in beauty, wildlife, Mayan culture and dense jungle trails. Activities include hiking, tubing, birdwatching and more. There is an entrance fee of $10 BZD per person
Intensity: Moderate
Bring Along: Bug Repellant, Water Bottle, Swimsuit, Towel, Sunscreen, Hiking Shoes or Trail Sneaker, Camera
Stop at the village of Maya Center where Mayan arts and crafts are for sale.
Davis Waterfall: About 30 minutes away from Sittee River Oasis. Tucked away along Belize’s stunning Hummingbird Highway, Davis Falls is a true hidden gem that feels like your own private slice of paradise. Surrounded by lush jungle and untouched beauty, this serene waterfall offers a refreshing escape from the crowds, where you can swim in cool, crystal-clear waters and unwind to the sounds of nature. Access to the falls requires a local guide- sur-realadventures.com
Intensity: Moderate/Intense
Enjoy an adventurous 2-hour roundtrip tracker ride to and from the trailhead, followed by a 30–45-minute hike through the jungle. The trek includes steep terrain and light rock climbing, making it ideal for guests who are comfortable with a more active, hands-on outdoor experience.
Bring Along: Bug Repellant, Water Bottle, Swimsuit, Towel, Sunscreen, Hiking Shoes or Trail Sneaker, Camera
Sittee River Bioluminescence: (Seasonal Jan-May): Cruise down Sittee River to Anderson Lagoon, where you’ll pass through a beautiful mangrove before the lagoon opens to an un-belize-able night sky filled with stars & the wake of the boat glows in blue light.
Outback Stables/Jungle Horseback Ride Tour: Located off the Southern Highway about 15 minutes south of Sittee River Oasis. Ride take your citrus orchards, tropical rainforest and plunge into the clear water of Sittee River. Please let us know if you’d like to book a ride and we can arrange with the stables.
Red Bank-Scarlet Macaw Bird Watching (Seasonal Dec-Feb) Need a tour guide
Contact Real Deal Belize Tours: www.realdealbelizetours.com | + (501) 651-8225
Additional Activities/Shopping You Don’t Want to Miss: Belize Zoo, Cave Tubing Herman’s Cave, Monkey River/ Palencia Visit, ATM Cave, Mayan Ruins, Garifuna Culture Center, GariMaya Gift Shop
DINING/GROCERY
Dining in Hopkins/Sittee River is laid-back and authentic, with many local eateries offering casual, beachfront dining with stunning views of the Caribbean Sea. Whether you’re enjoying freshly caught seafood or traditional Garifuna dishes, the food in Hopkins/Sittee River is both flavorful and welcoming.
Here’s are some local spots that might be worth visiting:
Traveller’s Palm Restaurant & Bar: A culinary gem located across the road from Sittee River Oasis,
Driftwood: Driftwood Beach Bar & Pizza Shack is a popular beachfront establishment located on the northern end of Hopkins. Renowned for its vibrant atmosphere, it offers live music, diverse menu featuring thin-crust pizzas, seafood, and nightly pasta specials.
Semiti Giffiti: Semeti Giffiti is a vibrant beachfront restaurant located in Hopkins celebrated for its fusion of delectable Garifuna cuisine, live drumming performances, and a lively atmosphere.
Ella’s Cool Spot: Ella’s Cool Spot in Hopkins, Belize, is a lively beachfront restaurant and bar known for its relaxed island vibe, flavorful food, and welcoming atmosphere. Located in the heart of the village, it has become a favorite gathering place for both locals and tourists,
Meet-U: Chinese cuisine within the Fi Wi Mart, in Hopkins. This establishment is the primary spot for Chinese food in the area, offering lunch and late-night dinner options.
Mango’s Beachfront Bar: Mango's Beachfront Bar is a popular beachfront establishment located in the Sittee Point. The bar offers a laid-back atmosphere with stunning ocean views, making it an ideal spot to relax and enjoy refreshing cocktails (Open Thurs-Sunday)
Thongs: Thongs Beach Cafe is a cozy beachfront establishment located on the main street in the heart of Hopkins. Known for its laid-back atmosphere and ocean views, the cafe offers a diverse menu suitable for various dietary preferences, including vegan, vegetarian, and gluten-free options
Chef Robs: Chef Rob's Gourmet Café is a renowned beachfront restaurant located in Hopkins, located in the Parrot Cove Lodge. The café offers a unique 7-course dining experience with a daily changing menu inspired by fresh, locally sourced ingredients
Grocery: There’s a small grocery store within walking distance of Sittee River Oasis. While it doesn’t have the variety of a traditional grocery market, you can find essentials like toiletries, bug spray, beer, shelf-stable food, and some poultry. For a larger selection with more options, you can head to a bigger grocery store in Hopkins. Hopkins has Fruit and Vegetable stands.
Other options: La Trattoria (Italian cuisine), Baha Fiesta (Filipino cuisine), Nice Cream (Ice-cream), so much more….
TRANSPORTAION
We recommend renting a car when visiting Belize, as it offers flexibility and allows you to easily explore all that the country has to offer. Sittee River Oasis is located about two hours from Belize City, along the Coastal Highway, a well-paved road that leads directly to the house. Several transportation options are available:
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Rent a Car at the Airport – You can rent a car directly from the airport in Belize City.
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Fly to Dangriga –You can take a small plane from Belize City to Dangriga, which is about 45 minutes from Sittee River Oasis. Once in Dangriga, you can rent a car or arrange a private car service
Please note that without a car, you'll need to rely on taxis or private drivers for transportation.
Taxi and Transportation
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Tropic Air-522-2129
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Maya Island Air-5220617
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Car Service: Julian Transfers & Tours
Belizegroundtransfers.com
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Hopkins Auto Rental-
(+501) 669-8102 |
SITTEE RIVER EMERENCY PREPARNESS PLAN & RESPONSE
In the Event of a Fire: Call for immediate help either the property manager or Fire department 990 or try to put out the fire with the fire extinguishers.
If you see Smoke or Flame / Procedures to follow: If you see smoke or flames, it is critical to act quickly and follow safety procedures to minimize the risk of injury or damage. Here are the general procedures to follow in case of smoke or flame
1. Stay Calm and Assess the Situation
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Stay calm to make clear decisions.
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Quickly assess the source and severity of the smoke or fire. If it's a small fire, you may be able to handle it with an extinguisher. If it's large or out of control, evacuate immediately and close doors to contain inside house.
2. Evacuate the Area/Route/Safe Zone
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Leave the home or area immediately. Follow designated exit signs and follow the driveway up to the top of the road-dedicated safe zone. Police office is across road from home.
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Do not jump out of windows or veranda, always use stairs or ladder to safely exit.
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If you encounter smoke, crawl low to the ground, as smoke rises.
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Close doors behind you to contain the fire, but don’t lock them.
3. Use Fire Extinguisher (If Safe)
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If the fire is small and manageable, use a fire extinguisher.
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Follow the PASS method for using an extinguisher:
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Pull the pin
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Aim at the base of the fire
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Squeeze the handle
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Sweep side to side
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5. Do Not Re-enter the Home:
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Stay outside at a safe distance until the authorities give the “all clear” signal. Do not re-enter the building until it’s confirmed safe by fire professionals.
6. Additional Tips:
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If you can smell smoke but can’t see fire or flames, evacuate immediately. It’s better to be safe than to wait for the situation to escalate.
Follow Up Action
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Confirm the fire is fully out: Firefighters or professionals should confirm that the fire has been completely extinguished, and it is safe to re-enter home.
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Avoid entering damaged areas: Do not enter the home or area until it has been declared safe as structural integrity may have been compromised
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Take photos: Before cleaning or moving anything, document the damage for claims.
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Create an inventory: Make a list of damaged or lost items. This will be helpful for insurance claims.
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Preserve evidence: If the fire is suspected to be caused by foul play or negligence, avoid disturbing the scene too much.
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Fire and smoke damage cleanup: Engage professional cleanup services to handle fire, smoke, and water damage (from firefighting efforts). This includes cleaning debris and drying out areas to prevent mold growth.
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Remove hazardous materials: If chemicals or other hazardous materials were involved in the fire, make sure they are properly disposed of by professionals.
In the Event of a Medical Emergency / Someone is injured or becomes ill: In case of a medical emergency, it's important to stay calm and act quickly. Here are the steps you should take:
1. Call for Help: Immediately call property manager or 911 and provide clear and concise information about the situation, including the nature of the emergency, your location, and any relevant details.
2. Stay Safe: Ensure your safety and the safety of the affected person. If the situation involves an accident or hazardous materials, avoid further danger and move to a safe area.
3. Provide First Aid (if trained): If you're trained in basic first aid, provide the appropriate care while waiting for help. This could include CPR, control bleeding, or helping someone breathe.
4.Where to go: Hospital / Clinic
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Major medical emergencies/Ambulance: Closest hospital with a 24/7 ER service is in Dangriga a 30-minute drive away. Phone number is: 501.522.2078
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Hopkins Satellite Clinic offers primary and preventative services. open Monday through Friday. Phone number is: 501.553.6054
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Hopkins Pharmacy: located on the Hopkins Rd. at the corner of Hopkins village
Phone number: 501.675.4878
5. Stay with the Person: Keep the person calm and reassure them while waiting for help to arrive. Avoid moving them unless necessary (e.g., in cases of fire or risk of further injury).
Follow up Action:
Assess the condition: If treated for the emergency, ensure they are stable before moving forward.
Provide immediate comfort: If they require ongoing medical attention, make sure you have a comfortable and quiet space to recover.
Daily check-ins: Depending on the condition, check in daily to ensure they are recovering well and not experiencing worsening symptoms (e.g., increased pain, fever, swelling).
WEATHER RELATED/ EMERGENCY
National Emergency Management Organization (Nemo)
Website: https://www.nemo.org.bz
Facebook: @ National Emergency Management Organization
Telephone Stann Creek: (501) 502-0218 / (501) 502-0061 / (501) 614-8514
Emergency Line: (501) 936
Flooding: If flooding occurs, it’s important to stay calm and secure safety. Here are steps you can take.
1. Contact property manager immediately and inform them of the situation
2. Tune into local radio, TV or official social media accounts for updates on flood conditions, evacuation orders and safety guidelines.
3. Follow Evacuation Orders: If the authorities issue an evacuation order, leave the area immediately and head to a safe location at higher grounds, police station is located across the road from the home.
4. Avoid going outside: stay inside until it's safe to leave. Floodwaters can rise quickly and may be dangerous.
5. Avoid travel especially by car, until authorities confirm it's safe to do so. Roads may be flooded or blocked, and attempting to drive through flooded areas can be deadly.
Hurricane: If a hurricane occurs, it’s important to stay calm and secure safety Here are some s you can take.
1.Contact property manager immediately for help to secure your safety
2. Monitor weather updates through local authorities, the National Hurricane Center, or the Belize National Emergency Management Organization (NEMO). Know the hurricane's predicted path and strength.
3. Remain inside a sturdy building away from windows and doors. The winds and flying debris are dangerous.
4. Stay Away from Flooded Areas: Floodwaters can be fast-moving and dangerous. Avoid walking or driving through them.
5. Avoid Using Electrical Appliances: If power goes out, turn off electrical appliances to prevent potential damage when electricity is restored.
Earthquake: If an Earthquake occurs, it’s important to stay calm and secure safety. Here are steps you can take.
1.Contact property manager immediately for help to secure your safety
2.Stay away from large windows, shelving systems or tall room partitions
3. Shelter under a table or move against an interior wall and cover your head with arms
4.Remain covered until movement subsides
5. Do not evacuate until instructed by emergency personnels
After Earthquake
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If power is out, use flashlight. Do not light a match or candle
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Be alert for safety hazards such as fire, electrical wires etc.
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Give or seek first-aid
Power outage: If a power outage occurs, it’s important to stay calm, this can be normal. Here are steps you can take.
1. Check local news, social media, or the Belize Electricity Limited (BEL) website for updates on the outage. Sometimes they post updates on expected restoration times.
2. If you don’t have electricity, use flashlights, lanterns, or candles for lighting. Make sure to use candles carefully to prevent fires.
3. If the power is out for a while, make sure the refrigerator and freezer doors stay closed to keep food cold for as long as possible.
4.If the power outage seems prolonged contact property manager or BEL directly to report the outage and get more details.
