Fernando García Grave de Peralta Municipal Museum, in Puerto Padre

Once the information phase for the eastern territories was declared due to the proximity of Hurricane Elsa, the protocols established for these cases in the province's network of museums were quickly activated, Vicente Ignacio Álvarez Morell, a specialist from the Office of Monuments and Historic Sites of the Provincial Center of Cultural Heritage, says.

In the command post established in that institution, the strict compliance with the plans against catastrophes in the subordinate institutions of the different municipalities is monitored, and information is received by telephone and WhatsApp groups.

Museum pieces“From early on, we are immersed in the protection of all our patrimonial assets. As for those properties located near the north and south coastlines, at risk from coastal flooding, the care of their funds and collections has been taken into account. An example is the Fernando García Grave de Peralta Municipal Museum, in Puerto Padre, which, although it is not providing services, has significant pieces.

“We are concerned and occupied with the security of assets that may be vulnerable, whether in warehouses or other depots. That is why we have evacuated the second levels of the museums that have it, such as the “Major General Vicente García González.”

"At this time, we have also confirmed compliance with the provisions of the entities of 'Amancio,' 'Colombia,' Jobabo and Manatí, besides the Major General Vicente García González Revolution Plaza," the specialist said.

Other cultural institutions also take the necessary measures. Thus, "the José Martí Provincial Library has protected its computers and books by moving them to safe places within the institution, and also securing doors and windows," Carmen Velázquez Quintana, its director, informed.

Avoiding material and human damage is a priority for the country. For this reason, before each meteorological event, all the pertinent provisions are implemented immediately so as not to regret losses, especially in a context in which the COVID-19 darkens the horizon.