strike within 24 hours or less.

The Emergency Measures Organisation provides advance warning through radio and television stations if public transportation is stopped and schools and Government offices are to close. This decision is usually made before 6 a.m.

so announcements can be broadcast at regular intervals on local radio station from 6 a.m. onwards (most private offices and businesses close when this announcement is made).

Listed below are necessary tasks to be done following a hurricane warning: Close your shutters and board up your windows. This should be done well before the hurricane is due to strike because it will become extremely difficult once the wind picks up. Exposed windows which cannot be boarded up should be covered in masking tape to reduce risk of flying glass.

Secure all outdoor furniture and store inside if possible.

Stay away from beaches and areas likely to be affected by high seas and tides.

Check to make sure you can quickly find the Emergency Broadcast Station on FM 100.1 MH if other stations go off the air.

Fill containers with fresh water (plus bathtub for flushing). If your electricity fails, your water pump sill not operate and you will have to dip from your tank.

Park your car in the safest possible place (away from overhanging trees).

Bring pets inside and make them comfortable.

HURRICANES HUR HOW TO KEEPY YOUR BOAT SECURE BCS SUP RG P6 26.5.1998 Y How to keep your boat secure If you know a hurricane is coming and want some boat advice, take a few tips from Jack Pitman, an old salt from Somerset who has been "messing about'' with boats since he was a young boy.

Additionally, Mr. Pitman managed Pearman Watlington Marine in Somerset for many years. Since that store closed, he has worked for PW's Hamilton store on the Waterfront.

"The first bit of advice is to make sure you have marine insurance that covers wind before the hurricane season arrives,'' said Mr. Pitman.

"You will need to prepare your boat for the worst. The seas will be rough and the winds will be strong (according to the Beaufort Scale a hurricane sends wind over 75 miles per hour).

"Move your boat to a protected area if this is an option to you.

"Check your moorings. Make sure the chain has not worn and the shackles are tight. If you cannot do this yourself, there are many expert mooring mechanics in the business who are waiting to help.

"They should be checked annually to guarantee that the mooring weights, ground chain and up-chain are in the correct location and are maintaining their integrity. Wear on the chain normally takes place near the bottom.

"Tie down any loose items and those items that cannot be secured, take home.

"Do not venture out to your boat during a severe storm or hurricane. Your safety is far more important than a boat.

"If you have a punt or small dinghy ashore turn it upright, fill it with water. Some folks actually sink the punt without harm.

Ensure your boat is secure Mr. Pitman concluded that foul weather can create danger for small pleasure boats and yachts too. "If you notice a barometer decrease, bad weather could be on it's way. If you own a boat and take care of it, you must always be aware of the weather.

Even if a hurricane is not suspected always get an accurate weather forecast prior to casting off. Dial 977 for the telephone forecast.

BOAT SAFETY CHECK LIST Move your boat to a protected area if possible.

Check your moorings.

Tie down any loose items and take any item that cannot be secured home.

If you have a punt or small dinghy ashore, turn it upright and fill it with water.

SOUND ADVICE -- Mr. Jack Pitman advises boat owners to "weather the storm out on shore, never attempt to salvage your boat during a hurricane''.

ON THE ROCKS -- Secure your boat before a hurricane or tropical storm or it could end up like this victim of Hurricane Emily in 1987.

HURRICANES HUR