Betty Ann Blaine - file

The committee of Hear the Children's Cry has called for all adults to be especially caring for children - their own and others - in the aftermath of Hurricane Dean.

Betty Ann Blaine, the human rights lobby group's convener, said: "We are particularly concerned about power lines which are down - children have a tendency to play with them, and this is extremely dangerous."

She added: "We all have to make sure the children are kept safe, especially the homeless youngsters, and others who work and play on the streets."

Ms. Blaine said: "Remember too that the roads are dangerous at this time, many with obstructions, and most without working street lights. Drivers and pedestrians need to be very careful when we go out."

The Hear the Children's Cry committee is also calling for employers to be especially sensitive to the needs of workers who have been affected by the disaster.

"A lot of people have been completely dislocated," Ms. Blaine stressed. "Many parents, especially single mothers, will have to be making special arrangements for their children to be cared for."

She added: "And remember that it is not only the physical dislocation of lost roofs, rain-soaked bedding and clothing, damaged household items, etc., that the affected persons are dealing with. There is also the physical and emotional disorientation. This has been a traumatic experience, especially for the children.

"We are calling on all Jamaicans to help each other with food, bedding, clothing, or whatever you can see is needed," she concluded. "And most of all, to look out for the welfare of the children."