KINGSTON, Jamaican — With the impending threat of a storm heading towards Jamaica, and the fact that we are in the middle of the hurricane season, here are some tips on how to cope if a hurricane does hit:

• Check thoroughly the roof of your house, hurricane shutters, hooks and latches and repair where necessary. 
• Make sure that galvanized sheeting on the roof of your house is properly fastened.
• Keep in stock extra plastic bags and sheets of plastic. Plastic is essential to prevent important documents, paintings, equipment and furniture from getting wet.
• Keep handy a supply of lumber, plywood and timber for battening down purposes.
• Trim trees that touch power lines or hang over the house and other buildings.
• Make sure that emergency cooking facilities such as coal stoves are in good working condition as these may be necessary.
• Make sure you have a supply of kerosene and coal. Keep coal dry by wrapping in a plastic bag or other waterproof material.
• Latch down securely all small buildings in the yard such as outdoor kitchens, pit latrines, tool sheds and barns.
• Store extra food, especially things that can be eaten without cooking or which need very little preparation. Electricity may be off during a hurricane, leaving you without refrigeration.