To mark the start of the new fiscal/parliamentary year, the Ceremonial Opening of Parliament takes place at Gordon House. This tradition began in 1962, at the first opening of Parliament for newly independent Jamaica The ceremonial opening of Parliament entails many intricate details executed to perfection. Some of these include: • Over 200 military personnel from the Jamaica Defence Force...

World Wetlands Day will be celebrated on February 2, 2017. The theme is “Wetlands for Disaster Risk Reduction.” According to the Convention on Wetlands of International Importance, otherwise known as the  Ramsar Convention,  wetlands include: “all lakes and rivers, underground aquifers, swamps and marshes, wet grasslands, peatlands, oases, estuaries, deltas and tidal flats, mangroves and other coastal areas, coral reefs,...

There are many different types of wetlands. These include marshes, swamps and bogs. There are several that are specific to the Caribbean such as mangroves, lagoons, swamp forests, and freshwater and brackish marshes. In Jamaica, the most common wetlands are coastal mangroves, marshes/morasses, lakes and ponds.   Below are some of the major wetlands in Jamaica. Great Morass, St. Thomas...

An earthquake can strike at any time, so it is important prepare as best as possible.  Remove hazards Secure heavy furniture, such as bookcases and storage cabinets by bolting them to the floor and wall. Place larger and heavier items on lower shelves. Bolt water heaters and other large appliances to the floor. Abide by building codes that require earthquake...

Minimise Further Problems  Stay off the streets. Keep them clear for the passage of emergency vehicles and equipment. Do not use the telephone unless there is an emergency. Do not flush toilets until water and sewage lines have been checked for damage and blockages. Stay away from beaches and waterfront areas, as tsunamis are likely to occur after an earthquake....

Check for Injuries After an earthquake, the most important thing to do is to check for injuries among family members and neighbours. Qualified persons should administer first aid, where necessary. Seriously injured persons should not be moved unless they are in immediate danger of further injury.  Check for Damage Check for fires and fire hazards. Where necessary, contact the fire...

The effects of an earthquake can be minimised if you take the right action. Here are some things to do during an earthquake. Firstly and most importantly, remain calm. If you panic, you are more likely to suffer injuries and those around you will be less likely to remain calm. Do not take any action without first considering the consequences....