As Barbados moves deeper into the hurricane season, hardware stores are reporting a steady demand for emergency supplies, with water tanks, flashlights, batteries and tarpaulins among the most sought-after items, while managers said more Barbadians are preparing well before any storm looms.

Major hardware retailers told Barbados TODAY on Monday that although they have not experienced a dramatic surge in sales since the hurricane season began in June, customers continue to buy essential preparedness items, with some changes in buying habits compared with previous years.

Michael Cummins Hardware manager at Ace H&B in Warrens (LE)