Review
Marjorie Henry, Contributor

Question eight of the June 2008 Caribbean Secondary Education Certificate examination paper has been my focus for the last few lessons. Although the entire question was given in an earlier lesson, let me restate Section (c), the last section of the question.

'For EITHER a hurricane OR an earthquake OR a volcano, explain how

EACH of THREE precautions can be used to reduce its impact.'

In decoding the question in an effort to understand it, you would have observed that the key verb here is explain. This means that you are to write as fully as you can about the matter, as if you are addressing someone who knows nothing about it. Give an example where possible. To identify the object of the question, you could ask yourself 'What am I to explain?' Your response would be the 'precautions to be used'. This leads you to the third aspect of decoding the question, that of the limiting factor, that is, the precautions needed to 'reduce the impact of the natural hazards named'. Note that you are asked for three precautions.

May I highlight here that this section of the question is demanding more from you in contrast to the other sections. In addition, this is the section that is allotted the most marks in the question. It is advisable that you give as much relevant information as you can as you aim at scoring maximum marks.

Precautions to reduce the impact on hurricane are in different phases.

BEFORE THE HURRICANE

• Plan your escape route early. Find out where the nearest official shelter in your area is, in case you have to leave your home. Find out what you should bring and if there are restrictions in terms of such things as pets.
• Take an inventory of your personal property. Make a detailed list of your possessions and back it up with photos or a videotape. Keep one copy in your home and another in a location where it will not be damaged in a storm. Your inventory will help with insurance claims and tax deductions for losses not covered by insurance.
• Review your insurance policies. Remember that your homeowner's insurance covers the cost of temporary repairs.
• Take steps to protect your home. Hurricane-force winds can turn landscaping materials into missiles that can break windows and doors. Cut weak branches and trees that could fall on your house. Buy the materials you need to brace garage doors and windows. Protect windows and doors against breakage.

WHEN A WATCH IS ISSUED

• Decide what supplies you might need in an emergency and keep a list handy.
• Purchase what you can in advance, such as plywood for boarding up windows, before the stores run out of supplies.
• You may want to have a bag set aside with some provisions - for example, an emergency kit that includes a three-day supply of drinking water; food you don't have to refrigerate or cook; first-aid supplies; a portable radio; a wrench and other basic tools and a flashlight.
• Jot down the name and phone number of your insurance company and agent and keep this information handy in your wallet or purse.

WHEN A WARNING IS ISSUED

• Stay informed by listening to the radio or TV and use the telephone only when necessary.
• Lower antennas and anchor or bring inside loose outside objects, such as garbage cans and awnings.
• Do not remain on a boat during a hurricane.
• Board up or shutter large windows securely, tape exposed glass and draw drapes across windows and doors.
• If you remain at home, stay indoors - do not go out during the brief calm when the eye of the storm passes over. Wind speeds can increase dramatically in seconds. Stay away from windows and glass doors and move furniture away from exposed doors and windows.
• If you must relocate, be certain there is a safe refuge to accommodate you and do not wait until the last minute to leave. Do not travel any farther than necessary, roads may be jammed. Take along survival supplies such as a first-aid kit, water and prescription medicine. Keep important papers with you at all times. Take warm, protective clothing and remember to lock windows and doors.

AFTER THE HURRICANE

• Beware of outdoor hazards. Keep away from loose or dangling power lines and report them immediately to the proper authority. Walk or drive cautiously, washouts may weaken road and bridge structures. In the event of a power outage, throw out food that may be spoiled. Boil municipal water before drinking until you have been told it is safe.

(Source: website - http://www.iii.org/ prepare/be_prepared/ hurricane/awareness/)

Students at the UWI Mona, western Jamaica campus in Montego Bay, were caught in a jubilant mood as they pose for the camera with their lecturer in Economics Peta Gay Fairclough (centre), during their official opening ceremony. - FILE