In the aftermath of Category 5 Hurricane Melissa, which wreaked havoc across western Jamaica, the resilience of the affected communities has been both inspiring and concerning. Denworth Finnikin, a concerned citizen, has highlighted the immediate and long-term challenges faced by residents in areas such as St Elizabeth and Trelawny. While the spirit of the people is commendable, with many quickly repairing their homes using zinc sheets, the underlying issues of poor construction and maintenance pose a significant threat. Many homes have rotted or improperly constructed rafters and lathes, making them vulnerable to future storms. Finnikin emphasizes the need for a structured roof reconstruction program, modeled after the successful ‘Safe Roof Reconstruction’ project implemented post-Hurricane Gustav in 2010. This initiative, led by the Office of Disaster Preparedness and Emergency Management (ODPEM) and the HEART/NSTA Trust, ensured that homes were rebuilt to withstand future storms. Finnikin proposes a similar approach for western Jamaica, focusing on site advisement, professional execution, and public education campaigns to ensure long-term safety and resilience. He urges the relevant authorities to act decisively before the next hurricane season, highlighting the opportunity to address decades of vulnerability and invest in the security of rural citizens.