Define Goals and Objectives Essay Example

Define Goals and Objectives Essay Define Goals and Objectives Overview: â€Å"What are goals and objectives? † Goals are general guidelines that explain what you want to achieve in your community. They are usually long-term and represent global visions such as â€Å"protect public health and safety. † Objectives define strategies or implementation steps to attain the identified goals. Unlike goals, objectives are specific, measurable, and have a defined completion date. They are more specific and outline the â€Å"who, what, when, where, and how† of reaching the goals. Where are we now? Step 1: Step 2: Step 3: Step 4: Step 5: Step 6: Step 7: Step 8: Step 9: Identify hazards and risks Define goals and objectives Identify alternatives for solving problems Select evaluation criteria Select feasible mitigation strategies Prepare a draft plan Prepare final plan Implement plan Monitor and periodically revise plan â€Å"Why do we need to identify goals and objectives? † Plans and actions based on clear goals and objectives are more likely to succeed in meeting the community’s needs. Vassar, Michigan 1998/99 Mitigation Planning Initiative Goals u u u Reduce flood losses. Improve response and recovery. Enhance community confidence. Objectives u Establish on-going floodway acquisition land-use program. u Rezone floodway to reflect current uses. u Develop a written Flood Response Recovery Plan. Accomplishments (Mitigation Strategies Being Implemented) u A floodway is being converted to a riverside park and recreation area. u Homes in the flood fringe are being raised above the 100 year elevation. u Remaining homes in the floodway are being removed. u Community spirit has been renewed. 68 2/03 We will write a custom essay sample on Define Goals and Objectives specifically for you for only $16.38 $13.9/page Order now We will write a custom essay sample on Define Goals and Objectives specifically for you FOR ONLY $16.38 $13.9/page Hire Writer We will write a custom essay sample on Define Goals and Objectives specifically for you FOR ONLY $16.38 $13.9/page Hire Writer Typical goals might include, but are not limited to, the following: †¢ Minimize damage to public and private property †¢ Maintain essential public services †¢ Provide adequate warning time to residents in affected areas †¢ Promote economic development †¢ Manage growth/development †¢ Acquire open space and park land †¢ Preserve housing stock †¢ Maintain a positive community image Goals will not be achieved if they exist in a vacuum or compete with other community goals. Hazard mitigation has a far greater chance for success when its goals are effectively integrated into other community goals. Combining goals in this manner can lead to a â€Å"win-win† situation where everyone benefits. A mitigation component may â€Å"tip the scale† to allow a marginal but beneficial project to move forward. Objectives are developed to help achieve goals by dividing them into manageable components. For example, â€Å"eliminate flood damage† would be a goal. A supporting objective could be â€Å"adopt a zoning ordinance prohibiting new development in the floodplain. † This objective establishes a policy that prohibits building in an area vulnerable to a natural hazard. Successful completion of multiple objectives is needed for each individual goal. Some objectives may themselves have components that can be expressed as action steps, but it is vital to eventually identify in the plan all the details that will guide and encourage concrete actions to be taken. Prioritizing goals and objectives Once you have identified the goals and objectives, prioritize them so local officials can better focus their attention on developing alternatives. Summary Developing clear goals and objectives will help your community clarify problems, issues and opportunities in hazard mitigation as well as other areas. Well-articulated goals and objectives are more likely to succeed. An important part of developing goals and objectives is raising community awareness of the relationship between community development practices and the community’s level of hazard vulnerability and risk. Also, raising citizen awareness can help gain support for ongoing mitigation planning efforts. 69 2/03 Step 3 Identify Alternatives for Solving Problems Overview Often, there are different ways that objectives can be met, each of which may have pros and cons, costs and benefits. Brainstorming sessions will be useful for suggesting possible mitigation strategies, which are called alternatives until they are narrowed down to one strategy that can receive widespread support. The narrowing-down process will be covered in Steps 4 and 5. First, alternatives must be generated that may address each of the most important hazards in your community, as identified by the hazard analysis produced in Step 1, and to accomplish the goals and objectives identified and defined in Step 2. Where are we now? Step 1: Identify hazards and risks Step 2: Define goals and objectives Step 3: Identify alternatives for solving problems Step 4: Step 5: Step 6: Step 7: Step 8: Step 9: Select evaluation criteria Select feasible mitigation strategies Prepare a draft plan Prepare final plan Implement plan Monitor and periodically revise plan Key Point Five Basic Hazard Mitigation Approaches u Strategy #1 – Modify the Hazard to remove or eliminate it. Modification will reduce its size or amount, or control the rate of release of the hazard. Examples include cloud seeding, slope planting (to reduce erosion), and stream widening or modification to improve water flow. Strategy #2 – Segregating the Hazard to try to keep the hazard away from the people. This is often accomplished in floodprone areas through the construction of structural protection measures such as dams, levees, floodwalls, etc. that redirect the impacts of a flood away from people and developed properties. This can be a highly effective strategy but also very expensive. Care must be taken to maintain structural solutions over time. Risks could be compounded if development continues behind a structure that is allowed to deteriorate! Strategy #3 – Preventing or Limiting Development in locations where people and structures would be at risk. This approach seeks to keep the people away from the hazard and includes a variety of land use planning and development regulation tools, such as comprehensive planning, zoning, floodplain management ordinances, capital improvements planning, disclosure laws, and the acquisition and relocation of hazard-prone properties. When properly applied, this strategy can be highly effective in promoting safe, sustainable development. Strategy #4 – Altering Design or Construction to make it less vulnerable to disaster damage. Also known as interacting with the hazard, it focuses on engineering structures to withstand potentially destructive impacts. Examples include elevation above flood levels, wind bracing, wet and dry floodproofing measures, and insulation of utility lines. Strategy #5 – Early Warning and Public Education to ensure that the public is aware of potential hazards, and that proper warning and communication systems are in place to save lives and protect property. 70 2/03 u u u u The text box on the preceding page presented five basic hazard mitigation approaches. Within that basic framework are numerous tools that can be used to help solve hazard-related problems and concerns. Some of those tools will now be described. Common Hazard Mitigation Tools Corrective Measures When structures and communities are located in hazardous areas, corrective measures are directed at working with current conditions. Examples of corrective measures include: 1. Acquisition: Public acquisition and management of lands that are vulnerable to damage from local hazards. Following acquisition, land uses more appropriate to the degree of risk may be chosen. Public acquisition has been achieved by: a) purchase at full market value; b) purchase at less than full market value through such methods as foreclosure of tax delinquent property, bargain sales, purchase and lease back, etc. ; c) donation, through reserved real estate, donation by will, donation and lease back; d) leases; and e) easements. Relocation: Permanent evacuation of hazard-prone areas through movement of existing hazard-prone development and population to safer areas. The two common approaches to relocation are physical removal of buildings to a safer area with future use of the vacated area limited to permanent open space, and replacing existing land uses with others that are less vulnerable to the hazard. Redevelopment: Rebuilding damaged areas in such a way that future damages are reduced and economic viability is improved. An example of this approach would be the redesign of deteriorated urban areas using renewal authorities and funds. Modifications: Modifications can be made both to a site and to a structure. Examples include landscape grading, or retrofitting existing structures to be damage resistant (i. e. , floodproofing existing buildings, adding structural braces to buildings to improve earthquake or wind resistance, etc. ) 2. 3. 4. Public Works Measures This category covers the most commonly known engineering measures used to contain or redirect natural hazards away from development and affected populations. Examples of these types of measures include: 1. Structural Protection Measures: Construction of measures that directly protect people and property at risk (in Michigan, primarily from flood hazards). Examples include dams, reservoirs, dikes, levees, seawalls, bulkheads, revetments, high flow diversions, and spillways. Land Treatment: Measures which are intended to reduce the intensity of hazard effects by modifying the natural environment. Examples include reforestation, contour plowing, grading, and soil stabilization. 2. Planning and Regulatory Measures Government has the power and resources to guide and influence the location, type, and amount of development within a jurisdiction. The tools of this development management are contained in the communitys plans, regulations, public facilities and taxation measures, in addition to land acquisition policies which were discussed previously. 1. Plans: Land use plans specify the planned location of types of development activity, including commercial, industrial, and residential. As a hazard mitigation tool, plans can also identify hazard areas such as floodplains, fault zones, landslide and high-erosion areas, and hazardous waste sites. Land use plans can guide concentrated development away from these hazard areas by designating them for open space or other low density uses. Zoning: Zoning ordinances are used to regulate the use of land and structures to ensure the public health, safety, and general welfare. Hazard areas such as floodplains can be zoned as low density districts. Hazard areas can also be identified in other zoning districts where special performance standards may be applied to development. 71 2/03 2. 3. Regulations: Certain regulations, such as subdivision regulations, place requirements and standards for the conversion of raw land into building ites. These types of regulations can require floodproofing of such facilities as water and sewer lines, and storm drains. The subdivider can be required to prevent environmental degradation (e. g. using cluster developments) and mitigate hazards (e. g. retention basins). Development in high-hazard areas can be prevented or protected by requiring elevation or floodproofing. The regulations may also require that hazard information appear on deeds for lots within the development. Environmental regulations also provide an opportunity to accomplish hazard mitigation. Since sensitive areas are protected by these regulations, mitigation can be accomplished when this protection reduces hazard impacts, and when the protection guides new development away from these areas. 4. Codes: Building codes protect lives and property by setting standards for construction materials, techniques, and design procedures. Both performance codes and specification codes can be valuable hazard mitigation tools when used to require protection of new construction (or substantial redevelopments). Housing and sanitary codes establish minimum standards, one for occupancy and the other for waste disposal. Special standards may be established for hazard-prone areas. Disclosure: Hazard mitigation goals can be accomplished by requiring sellers and real estate brokers to inform prospective buyers about the vulnerability of buildings and lots to specific hazards. Moratoria: Ordinances or regulations can be applied to delay rebuilding after a disaster until mitigation priorities have been established. This can be done either before, or immediately following a disaster. Development Rights: This type of regulation or policy may prevent development in hazardous areas by purchasing the development rights from the seller. The land can then be maintained as open space, or leased back for agricultural purposes. Another option is to transfer the development rights to another location that is safer. By increasing densities in the safer location in exchange for decreased densities in the hazard zone, both sellers and developers can realize a profit while accomplishing hazard mitigation at little or no cost to government. Open Space Planning: By employing some of the same strategies as for acquisition of developed properties, jurisdictions can lessen the potential for natural hazards by acquiring vulnerable undeveloped areas. 5. 6. 7. 8. Persuasion and Encouragement Other mitigation strategies are available to discourage new development in hazardous areas and encourage practices which are consistent with mitigation goals. These include: 1. Incentives: Financial incentives and disincentives, such as taxes, mortgage standards, and insurance credits can be used to conform with mitigation objectives. An example of a disincentive would be the denial of loans to would-be borrowers who cannot show that hazard-related standards are being met. Location: Leading by example, such as a clear and consistent government policy aimed at preventing the location of public buildings in hazardous areas, may discourage private development in these locations. An extension of this policy would be the denial of public services, such as water, power, and sewage into these areas. Finding alternatives to repairing or rebuilding damaged public facilities which service hazard-prone areas may also set an example for the private sector. . Public Education and Awareness Public awareness programs are necessary to periodically inform and remind people about an areas hazards, and the measures necessary to minimize potential damage and injury. Tools in this category include: 1. 2. Public Relations: Providing general information or establishing public consensus can be accomplished through a formal or informal pu blic relations program. Public Information: Information about hazards or mitigation efforts can be disseminated through the media. 72 2/03 3. 4. 5. Public Hearings: The public may obtain information and express opinions about mitigation efforts at public forums run by appropriate government agencies. Surveys and Polls: Government agencies or other organizations can gather information about public support for mitigation efforts. Public Education: Learning experiences, such as workshops and seminars, may be used to communicate hazard mitigation information to special target audiences. Incorporating alternatives into a plan Perhaps one of the best ways to identify alternatives for solving hazard-related problems is to display the information in table format. For example: City of Vassar, Michigan. GOAL: Reduce flood losses to the fullest extent possible. OBJECTIVE(s): Reduce losses associated with Cass River flooding. RANGE OF ALTERNATIVE SOLUTIONS: ALTERNATIVE 1 Acquire floodway buildings/properties. ALTERNATIVE 2 Elevate floodway buildings/properties. ALTERNATIVE 3 Wet floodproof floodway buildings/properties. ALTERNATIVE 4 Dry floodproof floodway buildings/properties. ALTERNATIVE 5 Dredge/widen the Cass River to increase water flow. ALTERNATIVE 6 â€Å"Relocate† the Cass River by altering its present course. ALTERNATIVE 7 Build a floodwall or dike levee to protect floodway buildings/properties. ALTERNATIVE 8 Join the National Flood Insurance Program to provide limited financial relief for flood victims. ALTERNATIVE 9 Do nothing and absorb flood losses as they occur. One of the alternatives that should be included in your communitys assessments is a do nothing alternative, such as the last item in the table above. An alternative of this kind will help people understand the current risks from the hazard, and the need to take action of some kind to mitigate the impacts of that hazard. In some cases, people may need some ideas with which to propose alternatives that may help mitigate local hazards. On the following pages is an extensive list of mitigation strategies for the many hazards that have been identified in the state of Michigan. To continue reading about the hazard mitigation planning process, turn to page 84. 73 2/03 POSSIBLE MITIGATION STRATEGIES – BY HAZARD Each hazard has a list of associated mitigation strategies. In front of each strategy are boldface letters that represent specific groups or organizations that are pertinent to implementing the described mitigation-related activity. Up to three categories are listed for each mitigation strategy. Here is a list of the code letters and what they refer to: B Business owners managers (including site developers and builders and government administrators whose activities are similarly associated with the selection, design, and operation of specific sites performing economic or community functions) C Public Citizens and those who provide educational services or marketing campaigns to them E Emergency management coordinators and related persons (LEPCs, incident commanders, etc. F First-responders (law enforcement, fire fighters, medical services, other response services at all levels) I Insurance agencies industry, including the NFIP L Elected officials and Legislators N Non-profit organizations and government departments which support them or have similar concerns (welfare provision, environmental protection, etc. ) O Building Officials and other inspection, regulation, and code enforcement Officials (health, fire, e tc. P Planning departments, consultants, officials, engineers, and others involved in similar activities guiding long-term development patterns and conditions in a community, a larger area, or at development sites R Researchers, engineers, architects, etc. involved in the study and design of human environments and support infrastructure; also includes public works, utility providers, and others dealing with infrastructure design, development and maintenance (Road Commissioners, Drain Commissioners, etc. Civil Disturbances (prison or institutional rebellions, disruptive political gatherings, violent labor disputes, urban protests or riots, or large-scale uncontrolled festivities) E, F B, F, R E, F B, P Law enforcement training, staffing, and resource provision. Incident anticipation and planning, and video documentation of events for later study and use. Local law enforcement mutual aid, and support from the Michigan State Police and National Guard. It is possible that design, manage ment, integration, and lowered density of poor or blighted areas may reduce vandalism, crime, and some types of riot events. Crime Prevention Through Environmental Design (CPTED) is a field of planning that deals with this. B, C, I Insure structures and property in risky areas. B, E Developing site emergency plans for schools, factories, office buildings, shopping malls, hospitals, correctional facilities, stadiums, recreation areas, and other appropriate sites. O, P Design requirements for schools, factories, office buildings, shopping malls, hospitals, correctional facilities, stadiums, recreation areas, etc. that take into consideration emergency and security needs. Drought R L B, C R P, R B, C, I Storage of water for use in drought events (especially for human needs during extreme temperatures). Measures or ordinances to prioritize or control water use (especially when needed to fight fires). Encouragement of water-saving measures by consumers (especially during irrigation and farming). Anticipation of potential drought conditions, and preparation of drought contingency plans. Designs and plans for water delivery systems that include a consideration of drought events. Obtaining agricultural insurance. Earthquakes – (biggest Michigan threats would be to pipelines, buildings that are poorly designed and constructed, and shelving, furniture, mirrors, gas cylinders, etc. within structures that could fall and cause injury or personal property damage) L, O B, C B, C, I P, R C Adopt and enforce appropriate building codes. Use of safe interior designs and furniture arrangements. Obtain insurance. Harden critical infrastructure systems to meet seismic design standards for lifelines. Encourage residents to develop a Family Disaster Plan which includes the preparation of a Disaster Supplies Kit. Extreme Temperatures C, L, N Organizing outreach to vulnerable populations during periods of extreme temperatures, including establishing and building awareness of accessible heating and/or cooling centers in the community, and other public information campaigns about this hazard. C, E, L Increased coverage and use of NOAA Weather Radio. 74 2/03 L, O Housing/l andlord codes enforcing heating requirements. C, L, N Special arrangements for payment of heating bills. Fire Hazards Scrap Tire Fires B, L, O Policies for regulated disposal and management of scrap tires, and enforcement of regulations related to them (separation of stored scrap tires from other materials; limits on the size of each pile; minimum distances between piles and property lines; covering, chemically treating, or shredding tires to limit mosquito breeding; providing for fire vehicle access to scrap tire piles; training employees in emergency response operations; installation of earthen berms around storage areas; prevention of pools of standing water in the area; control of nearby vegetation; an emergency plan posted on the property; storing only the permitted volume of tires authorized for that site). P Proper siting of tire storage and processing facilities (land use planning that recognizes scrap tire sites as a real hazard and environmental threat). E, F Local awareness of scrap tire risk, training and preparedness of responders. F Law enforcement to prevent illegal dumpi ng of tires at the site. B Pest-control measures for mosquitoes and other nuisances around scrap tire yards. Structural Fires L, O Code existence and enforcement. B, R Designs that include the use of firewalls and sprinkler systems (especially in tall buildings, dormitories, attached structures, and special facilities). C Public education and school programs (especially about the use of stoves, heaters, fireworks, matches/lighters, etc. ) B, C, O Landlords and families can install and maintain smoke detectors and fire extinguishers. Install a smoke alarm on each level of homes (to be tested monthly, with the batteries changed twice each year). Family members and residents should know how to use a fire extinguisher. B, C, O Proper installation and maintenance of heating systems (especially those requiring regular cleaning, those using hand-loaded fuels such as wood, or using concentrated fuels such as liquid propane). B, C Safe and responsible use of electric and space heaters (placed at least 3 feet from objects, with space near hot elements free of combustibles). B, E Developing site emergency plans for schools, factories, office buildings, shopping malls, hospitals, correctional facilities, stadiums, and recreation areas, and other appropriate sites. C Safe use and maintenance/cleaning of fireplaces and chimneys (with the use of spark arresters and proper storage of flammable items). Residents should inspect chimneys at least twice a year and clean them at least once a year. C Posting of fire emergency telephone numbers in accessible places. B, C, O Safe installation, maintenance, and use of electrical outlets and wiring. C Education and practice of safe cigarette handling and disposal (also candles, fireworks, campfires, holiday lights) L, O, P Measures to reduce urban blight and associated arson (including CPTED? ). B, F, O Proper workplace procedures, training and exercising, and handling of explosive and flammable materials and substances. B, C, O Pre-planned escape routes and fire alert responses. E, F Improved and continuing training for emergency responders, and provision of equipment for them. B, C, O Defensible space around structures in fire-prone wildland areas. F, R Proper maintenance of power lines, and efficient response to fallen power lines. B, P, R Transportation planning that provides roads, overpasses, etc. o maximize access and improve emergency response times, and evacuation potential, for all inhabited or developed areas of a community (not just designing for the minimum amount of road capacity to handle normal traffic volumes in the community. ) This includes transportation acce ss within developed sites (shopping malls, stadiums, office commercial parking lots, etc. ) E, F Control of civil disturbances and criminal activities that could lead to arson. B, C, F Enforced fireworks regulations. C, F Elimination of clandestine methamphetamine laboratories through law enforcement and public education. B, C Condominium-type associations for maintaining safety in attached housing/building units or multi-unit structures. B, C, I Obtaining insurance. C Encourage residents to develop a Family Disaster Plan which includes the preparation of a Disaster Supplies Kit. Wildfires B, C, O Proper maintenance of property in or near wildland areas (including short grass; thinned trees and removal of lowhanging branches; selection of fire-resistant vegetation; use of fire resistant roofing and building materials; use of functional shutters on windows; keeping flammables such as curtains securely away from windows or using heavy fire-resistant drapes; creating and maintaining a buffer zone (defensible space) between structures and adjacent wild lands; use of the fire departments home safety inspections; sweeping/cleaning dead or dry leaves, needles, 75 2/03 B, C, L B, F, N C C C C B, C B, C, N C R F, R E, F N, P, R B, C, L F, L, O E, L B, N, R B, N, P B, C, O B, C, R B, C B, C B, C, O B, C, P F, P, R B, C, I C, I C, E, L wigs, and combustibles from roofs, decks, eaves, porches, and yards; keeping woodpiles and other combustibles away from structures; use of boxed or enclosed eaves on house; thorough cleaning-up of spilled flammable fluids; and keeping gar age areas protected from blowing embers). Safe disposal of yard and house waste rather than through open burning. Use of fire spotters, towers, planes. Keep handy household items that can be used as fire tools; a rake, axe, hand/chainsaw, bucket and shovel. Install and maintain smoke detectors and fire extinguishers. Install a smoke alarm on each floor of buildings and homes. Test monthly and change the batteries two times each year. Teach family members how to use the fire extinguisher. Post fire emergency telephone numbers. Organizing neighborhood wildfire safety coalitions (to plan how the neighborhood could work together to prevent a wildfire). Residents should plan several escape routes away from their homes by car and by foot. Use of structural fire mitigation systems such as interior and exterior sprinklers, smoke detectors, and fire extinguishers. Arson prevention activities, including reduction of blight (cleaning up areas of abandoned or collapsed structures, accumulated junk or debris, and with any history of flammable substances stored, spilled, or dumped on them). Public education on smoking hazards and recreational fires. Proper maintenance and separation of power lines. Ask the power company to clear branches from power lines. Efficient response to fallen power lines. Training and exercises for response personnel. GIS mapping of vegetative coverage, for use in planning decisions and analyses through comparison with topography, zoning, developments, infrastructure, etc. Media broadcasts of fire weather and fire warnings. Create and enforce local ordinances that require burn permits and restrict campfires and outdoor burning. Mutual aid pacts with neighboring communities. Prescribed burns and fuel management (thinning of flammable vegetation, possibly including selective logging to thin out some areas. Fuels cleared can be given away as firewood or chipped into wood chips for distribution. The creation of fuel breaks (areas where the spread of wildfires will be slowed or stopped due to removal of fuels, or the use of fire-retardant materials/vegetation) in high-risk forest or other areas. Keeping roads and driveways accessible to vehicles and fire equipment—driveways should be relatively straight and flat, with at least some open spaces to turn, bridges that can support emergency vehicles, and clearance wide and high enough for two-way traffic and emergency vehicle access (spare keys to gates around property should be provided to the local fire department, and an address should be visible from the road so homes can be located quickly). Enclosing the foundations of homes and buildings rather than leaving them open and the underside exposed to blown embers or materials. Safe use and maintenance/cleaning of fireplaces and chimneys (with the use of spark arresters and emphasis on proper storage of flammable items). Residents should be encouraged to inspect chimneys at least twice a year and clean them at least once a year. Proper maintenance and storage of motorized equipment that could catch on fire. Proper storage and use of flammables, including the use of flammable substances (such as when fueling machinery). Store gasoline, oily rags and other flammable materials in approved safety cans. Stack firewood at least 100 feet away and uphill from homes. Avoid building structures on hilltop locations, where they will be at greater risk from wildfires (in addition, hillsides facing south or west are more vulnerable to increased dryness and heat from sun exposure) and use of proper setbacks from slopes (outside of the convection cone of intense heat which would be projected up the slope of the hill as a wildfire climbs it). Have adequate water supplies for emergency fire fighting (in accordance with NFPA standards). For residents, identify and maintain an adequate outside water source such as a small pond, cistern, well, swimming pool or hydrant; have a garden hose that is long enough to reach any area of the home and other structures on the property; install freeze-proof exterior water outlets on at least two sides of the home and near other structures on the property. Install additional outlets at least 50 feet from the home; consider obtaining a portable gasoline powered pump in case electrical power is cut off. Obtaining insurance. Including wildfire safety information in materials provided by insurance companies to area residents. When Wildfire threatens, residents should be instructed to carry and listen to battery-operated radios for reports and evacuation information, and follow the instructions given by local officials. Cars should be backed into garages or parked in an open space facing the direction of escape, with doors and windows closed and the key in the ignition. Garage windows and doors should be closed but left unlocked. If residents have time, they can take steps to protect their homes by closing windows, vents, doors, venetian blinds and heavy drapes; removing 76 2/03 ightweight curtains; shutting off gas at the meter; turning off pilot lights; opening fireplace damper; closing fireplace screens; moving flammable furniture into the center of the home away from windows and sliding-glass doors; and turning on a light in each room to increase the visibility of homes in heavy smoke. Outside, residen ts can seal attic and ground vents with pre-cut plywood or commercial seals, turn off propane tanks, place combustible patio furniture inside, connect the garden hose to outside taps, set up a portable gasoline-powered pump, place lawn sprinklers on the roof and near above-ground fuel tanks, wet the roof, wet or remove shrubs within 15 feet of the home, and gather fire tools. C, E, L Residents should be instructed on proper evacuation procedures, such as wearing protective clothing (sturdy shoes, cotton or woolen clothing, long pants, a long-sleeved shirt, gloves and a handkerchief to protect the face); taking a Disaster Supplies Kit; and choosing a route away from fire hazards. C Encourage residents to develop a Family Disaster Plan

Euthanasia and Biomedical Ethics Essays

Euthanasia and Biomedical Ethics Essays Euthanasia and Biomedical Ethics Essay Euthanasia and Biomedical Ethics Essay Question 1 To first do no harm is the Hippocratic Oath often taken by healthcare professionals around the globe; however, the subject of active versus passive euthanasia to allow chronically ill patients the right to die with dignity has sparked moral controversy among world-renowned philosophers for decades. James Rachels, Winston Nesbitt, and Roy W. Perrett are just three philosophers who wrote and spoke openly about the topic of euthanasia and biomedical ethics. Rachels and Perrett were adamant in their belief that the moral distinction between killing (active euthanasia) and allowing to die (passive euthanasia) was nonexistent. Rachels felt strongly that one was no worse than the other and that statements by the American Medical Association to support one method over the other should be eliminated. Perrett agreed and added that death by either commission or omission opposes the preservation of human life. In the example of the bathtub case, Smith and Jones are both two greedy men who stand to gain a large sum of money once their nephew passes away. In Scenario A, Smith decides to drown the child and make it seem like an accident. In Scenario B, Jones sees the child drowning after hitting his head and accidentally falling into the tub but does nothing but stand by and watch. According to the philosophy of Rachels and Perrett, both were irresponsible and morally reprehensible acts, and the end result was the same†¦death. Finally, in numerous published articles Rachels even went on to say that while they can be assessed the same, the act of killing was in fact often more humane than allowing someone to suffer a slow demise due to lack of treatment or failure to render aid. In direct contrast to the aforementioned beliefs, philosopher Winston Nesbitt disagreed with the two men. He argued that killing is indeed worse than allowing one to die. According to Nesbitt, the moral distinction lies within the issues of motive and intent. In the example of the two bathtub scenarios, Nesbitt would agree that both men are liable, but it is Smith (not Jones) who deliberately went into the room with the intent to kill for financial gain. While I have mixed feelings about the legalization of euthanasia, I must agree with Nesbitt; if I were a wealthy woman on my way home with a large sum of money, I would much rather be alone on the elevator with Jones versus Smith who is tantamount to an armed robber who walks into a bank prepared to commit capital murder out of sheer greed. Question 2 Another controversial quote that has been repeated throughout the ages is that all is fair in love and war, but is it really? Many philosophers, both traditional and contemporary, oppose the use of military operations that take the lives of innocent civilians who pose no threat to soldiers or society; two of the most noted are Robert Fullinwider and Lawrence A. Alexander. Fullinwider first spoke on the issue in 1975 when he wrote that there is no justification for killing innocent civilians even in times of war. Fullinwider believed whole-heartedly that some traditional methods of military combat, such as bombing an entire community to kill an intended target, is no different than terrorism that many claim to oppose. His argument is that killing noncombatants who are unarmed and pose no threat should not be looked upon as self-defense. In the gambling scenario of Smith and Jones, Smith finds himself deeply indebted to the mob due to a gambling addiction; the mob knows he owes more than he can pay. The mob then offers Smith a deal. His debt will be cleared, and he and his family will be safe if he kills Jones, an innocent district attorney. Smith may not agree with the killing, but to keep both he and his family safe, he opens fire. The fact, according to Fullinwider, is that this is still not self-defense. Smith has no right to kill Jones, and the mob has no right to kill Smith even though he owes them money. However, when Jones returns fire and kills Smith, he is covered by self-defense because Smith was armed and an immediate threat to his personal safety. Lawrence Alexander’s reformation of self-defense argues that not only is Smith a threat to Jones, but the mob is a more ever-present threat because they ordered the killing. According to his philosophy, if given the opportunity, Jones is morally justified to kill the members of the mob in lieu of Smith since they are promoting a murder under duress. In doing so, not only would Jones save his own life, but Smith and his family would be safe as well. This case is quite controversial. I do not agree that if Smith had killed Jones to save his family it would have been self defense. Smith foolishly agreed to place himself and his family in direct harm in order to feed a gambling addiction; this has nothing to do with killing an innocent man to save himself or his family. Question 3 Perhaps no pro-life subject is more controversial than the issue of abortion. There are as many sides to this issue as there are people. Two philosophers who have published articles defending their stance on abortion are Judith Thompson and Francis J. Beckwith. In her article â€Å"Defense of Abortion† Judith Jarvis Thompson supports a woman’s right to choose and raises the question that even if the fetus is a living human being, how much of a sacrifice is one human required to make in order to save another. Her scenario is that if someone were attached to a famous violinist who would surely die without use of the other person’s body parts for survival, yes it would be kind of them to agree to stay connected for nine months, but it is not his or her moral obligation. She concedes that the pro-life argument is more comprehendible if a woman willing engages in unprotected sex and conceives a baby; she in essence bears some responsibility for the fetus needing her body to stay alive. Thompson believes that the pro-life argument becomes weak in the face of rape cases where the female herself is an innocent victim and had no intention of being violated and becoming a parent. In these cases the female victim should most certainly be given the choice to abort. Francis J. Beckwith countered Thompson with at least four arguments. One, not all moral obligations are voluntary. If two people engage in a voluntary act that they know could very well produce a child, then they should be held accountable for their actions. Two, Beckwith feels that Thompson’s argument is fatal to family morals and that there are some obligations that parents have to offspring that they do not have to a complete stranger or a ‘famous violinist. Third, the case of the violinist was artificial and had nothing to do with the natural attachment or realistic human development. Finally, Francis J. Beckwith believes that abortion is indeed the removal and killing of a living fetus and not just merely withholding of medical treatment. She goes on to state that just as it is illegal to starve a child after birth, so should it be to cut the child off from its source of life beforehand. While both authors have valid points, my personal belief is that _.

Case Study Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 500 words - 39

Case Study - Essay Example Hence, training will make him learn how to stay composed and calm when he faces a stressor, and he will prove to be confident and solemn. Don should also encourage Gary to focus on his strengths and shine his capabilities that he has, through practicing them. 2. It is all about employee development. Employee development is a kind of strategy that employers adopt to increase employees’ knowledge, talents, and expertise in particular areas they work in. It is important for Don to create a balance between Gary’s individual career objectives and organizational milestones, in order to make him achieve employee development. Don should use techniques of training, coaching and empowerment (Ellinger at al.) to enhance Gary’s development as a leader. Employee development activities that Don should use include: (1) stress-coping training courses in work time, (2) work-based development activity in work time, (3) career planning activity in work time or in Gary’s own time, and (4) voluntary learning in Gary’s own time (Birdi, Allan and Warr). All of these development activities will produce beneficial results and commitment to work. If Don is training Gary himself, then the training aids that he can use include: pr esentations, slides, projectors, movies, charts, graphs, flash cards, pictograms, handbooks, manuals, libraries, internet, reading rooms, posters, and enlarged drawings. 3. Certain techniques help employees to bring out their leadership skills and learn new one. For example, teamwork creates such an environment in which employees can learn new leadership skills and competencies (Gallie et al.). This is because the employer distributes tasks on multi-functional basis, requiring different people with different skill sets. This system of work organization requires employees to work on a collaborative platform on

International corporate reporting issues Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 3000 words

International corporate reporting issues - Essay Example Literally, the differences in the financial reporting system in varying countries have acted as an obstacle in the integration of national economy with global economy (Verschoor, 2011; Alexander, Britton & Jorissen, 2007). Thus, in order to deal with these challenges, IASB and FASB together have been duly engaged in promoting harmonization of financial reporting systems (Whittington, 2008; Mogul, 2003). Emphasising on these aspects of the international accounting standards, this paper intends to identify and explain the six major qualitative characteristics of accounting information. Furthermore, this paper aims to evaluate the application of these qualitative characteristics by Diageo plc focusing on three particular areas. ... The institutions in the accounting standards namely International Accounting Standard Board (IASB) and Financial Accounting Standard Board (FASB) have been involved in developing conceptual framework for enhancing the financial reporting system. The primary objective of this conceptual framework has been related with identifying the major purpose of financial reporting in business in accordance with the prevailing economic circumstances (Obaidat, 2007). In other words, the conceptual framework developed in accumulation of the principles specified by IASB and FASB deals with establishing objectives and guidelines which are expected to serve as the basis for the preparation of financial accounting and reporting standards. It is worth mentioning that conceptual framework mainly consists of four major items which includes: Objectives related with financial reporting Elements concerning with financial statements Recognition and measurement concepts Qualitative characteristics of accountin g information Additionally qualitative characteristics are considered to be one of the vital components of the conceptual framework that supports decision-usefulness and stewardship. Moreover, there are six primary qualitative characteristics that are considered to be vital for economic as well as business decision making according to the specified guidelines in the international standard (Obaidat, 2007). These six elements of qualitative characteristics have been further explained below in relation to their usefulness in terms of decision making and stewardship. Relevance In order to ensure the obtained accounting information to be relevant to creditors, investors and other interested parties, it has been argued that such accounting information

Study And Introduction Of Malacca

Study And Introduction Of Malacca There is a popular story about how the Malacca was found by Parameswara when he was hunting and while resting under a tree, one of his dogs cornered a mouse-deer or in malay we called it pelandok The mouse-deer in its defense attacked by dog even force it into the river water. Parameswara decided to name this place as Malacca after saw the bravely of that mouse deer. The name of Malacca was come from the melaka tree that was shading Parameswara. In the history of Malaysia, the Malacca Sultanate was occupies a special position in Malacca. It was the beginning of the new Malay empire and as the birthplace of the Malay Sultanate and historical city. Malacca also became a stage on which the Portuguese, Dutch, British, Japanese played out their roles in the history of Malacca. After Parameswara occupation Malacca, he began noticed that Malacca actually was a strong maritime trading state. After that, Because of its strategic location, it thrived as a center of entreport trade with merchant who came from other places and Malacca starts concentrating their activities around the world such as Pedir and Pasai. China also became a important role in trading network of Malacca. In 1511, Malacca fall to Portuguese and followed by the Dutch in 1641. When the Netherlands was captured during the Napoleonic Wars, Dutch pass the Malacca to British to prevent it falling to French in 1795. After that, during 1818, Malacca was return to Dutch under the treaty of Vienna but later Malacca was exchange by the British for Bangkahulu in Sumatra. From 1826 onwards, Malacca, Penang and Singapore was combine as Straits Settlement by British East India Company and Straits Settlement was under the Straits Settlement administration in Calcutta. After the Dutch occupation the Malacca for over century, Dutch was left many fine buildings marking their heritage. For example, Stadthuys, which is a strikingly pink town hall and it became the oldest Dutch building in Malacca. Another building is red Christ Church which is constructed with pink brick. The most prominent reminders building were the A Famosa and St. Pauls Church in Malacca. After World War II, in 20 February 1956, Our Malaysias first Prime Minister Tunku Abdul Rahman Putra was proclamation of Independence of Malaysia. Where is Melaka located in Malaysia Melaka road map via the North-South Highway Malacca is located on the Western Coast of Peninsular Malaysia facing the Straits of Malacca. The state of Malacca is between the states of Negeri Sembilan and Johor. Malacca can be reached by excellent road which is PLUS highway from Kuala Lumpur and Singapore. Malacca is serviced by a good network of leading to all the historical places and Malaccas area of around 658 square kilometers and it is divided into three districts which is Melaka Tengah, Jasin and Alor Gajar. The population of Malacca is around 648,000 in year 2001 and comprises of Malays 50%, Chinese 40% and the rest included Indians, Chitty people and Kristang. The major towns of Malacca are Ayer Keroh, Jasin, Merlimau, Pulau Sebang, Masjid Tanah, Alor Gajar, and Malacca Town. Food and beverage in Malacca. There have many famous foods in Malacca; one of the famous foods is baba nyonya style spicy cooking which normally gets served with coconut milk. There are many specialist baba nyonya restaurants in town. The baba-nyonya food not only known to be the best in Malacca, but in the South East Asia region too. Besides that, Malacca also has satay celup which is Satay stick with raw meat dipped in hot bolling satay sauce for cooking. ikan bakar which literally means barbecue fish served in grilled aluminium foil or banana leaf heavily marinated with spices that tingle the senses. Chicken rice ball which is the rice pudding shape like a golf ball and you can dip with chilly and served with chicken. Furthermore, the oyster omelette served in stirs fried egg, spring onions and sweet or spicy paste. In Malacca Portuguese village, there has a few speciality tongue burning dished which is will let your stomach growling whole night after a heavy meal, the dished serving there normally are spicy food. About the beverage, Malacca also have few famous beverage to drink. First is the Cin-Cau, a kind of dark grass jelly drink which has a cooling effect is popularly served at restaurants. ice kacang which is a dessert made of shaved ice with red beans, nuts, jelly and many more. Besides that, cendol is a kind a pandan flavoured jelly served in coconut milk and it has been improvise on the cendol and invented the durian flavoured cendol. The durian cendol is popular with the local tourist but the aroma of durian cendol is a bit pungent for foreign tourist. Another favourite is the Bubur Cha Cha, a sweet dessert made from steamed sweet potatoes, yam, white beans, tapioca jelly in coconut milk. Places of interest in Malacca A Famosa 2011505-A_Famosa-Melaka.jpg A Famosa, or the Famous is among the oldest surviving European architectural remain in Asia during the Portuguese occupation Malacca in 1511. In 1511, a Portuguese fleet arrived under the command of Alfonso de Albequerque and attacked the Malacca. Portuguese was successfully defeated he armies of the native Sultanate and Albequerque order built the fortress around a natural hill near the sea. He believed that Malacca would become an important trading port between Portugal and China. At this time Portuguese also establishing others outposts such as China, Goa, India and Macau to create a friendly ports for ships heading to China or returning home to Portugal. Ayer Keroh Air Keroh is lies about 15kn from Malacca town and it is a tourist complex with hotels, Mini Asean, Mini Malaysia, crocodile farm, a reptile park, butterfly farm, aquarium, zoo, golf resort, and recreational forest. Bukit China burial ground Bukit China is situated southeast of Malacca Town; there are more than 12,500 graves on Bukit China and approximately 20 Muslim tombs. The existence of the Muslim tombs has made this more special and unique. The oldest tomb in Bukit China is a double burial which is more than three centuries old. The oldest tomb is Mr. Mrs Huang Wei-Hung was built in the second year of Tian Hee of Ming Dynasty (1622). In 1933, Cheng Hoon temple had undertaken to repair it because of the weather had taken a heavy toll on that tomb. In 2001, the tomb was again restored and a stone inscription was erected to mark it. Bukit ChinaBukit China During the British occupation Malacca, British had several times try to acquire Bukit China for development purposes, road widening and land reclamation. But Cheng Hoon Temple had have authorized strongly opposed these attempts because the hill is responsible by them. At the end Cheng Hoon Temple managed to preserve Bukit China with the support of the general public. The reasons of Cheng Hoon Temple preserve it because Bukit China is the place where early traders from China were buried. Many if the Chinese traders came to this country with high expectations for success in trade and it was stated o the stone steles. But unfortunately, some traders died before fulfilling their ambitions. Since the Chinese traders families did not travel with them, so there was nobody to pray for their souls. As such, prayers were initiated by the Chinese Kapitans for them. However, Bukit China were always hampered by heavy rainfalls and strong winds because there was no proper shelter. Cheng Hong Teng s Temple Cheng Hoon Tengs Temple This site is dedicated to the vision of Cheng Hoon Tengs founders and the determination of its devotees to preserve their unique bastion of culture and heritage. Cheng Hoon Tengs Temple is a premier historical monument and it remains the finest of Chinese temples in Malaysia. The temple ranks among the most significant in Southeast Asia, being central to the spiritual aspirations of the Chinese community in historic Malacca. Christ Church Christ Church Christ Church situated near Jalan Laksamana and Jalan Gereja in Malacca city. In 1753, Christ Church was built by Dutch to commemorate a century of their rule. It was reputed as the oldest protestant church in Malaysia and now is an Anglican Church. The beams of the Church were constructed from cutting and carving from a single tree and have no joints. The building shows the ingenuity of the Dutch architectural world. The hand-made pews dated back some 200 years. The altar is a beautiful piece of the Last Supper done in glazed tiles. Gadek Hot Spring Gadek Hot Spring Gadek Hot Spring was located in District of Alor Gajar, 30 km away from Malacca. It was believed that local villagers discovered the hot spring in the forest after watching some English soldiers settled around the spring. After the war, visitors from far and wide discovered that the hot spring had strong healing elements unlike many that they had encountered before. Today visitors can enjoy the spa pool or the Soak In Pool for those seeking therapeutic cure for skin ailments. Gadek Hot Spring was an ideal spot for family outing. Hang Jebats Mausoleum Hang Jebats Mausoleum Hang Jebat was the champion of justice who died a tragic death. Hang Jebat was unceremoniously killed by Hang Tuah in a duel of honour that lasted 3 days and 3 nights. He ran amuck after suffering a fatal wound from Hang Tuahs dagger Keris Taming Sari. In the name of justice to avenge the Sultans hasty punishment against Hang Tuah for a crime he didnt commit. Hang Jebat was accused by Hang Tuah of derhaka (contumacy). The duel between two of Malaccas most prominent knights has left a permanent question as to the moral behind Hang Jebats aberrant reaction against authority and the conventions by which Hang Tuah exercised his conduct as a loyal subject of the Sultan. Jonker Street Jonker Street Jalan Hang Jebat, as known as Jonker Street, is known worldwide among famous antique collectors as one of the best places to hunt and bargain for antiques. It was A definite haven for antique collectors and bargain hunters. Authentic artifacts and relics. some dating as far back as 300 years, can be found among a host of interesting collectibles, each with its own history and mystery. Melakas Sultanate Palace Melakas Sultanate Palace Malacca Sultanate Palace is an exquisite piece of Malay architecture and is a replica of the original 15th century palace of Malaccas extinct Sultanate. The palace is built based on sketches found in the ancient Sejarah Melayu (Malay Annals). This wooden replica of the Sultans palace houses the Malacca Cultural Museum. Facing the palace is the Historic City Memorial Garden. An intriguing monument to commemorate the declaration of Malacca as a Historic City is the showpiece of this garden. The monument is topped with a replica of a Malay royal headdress, a symbol of Malaysians allegiance to the throne.

The Life of Nelle Harper Lee Essay -- Biography Biographies Essays

The Life of Nelle Harper Lee On April 28, 1926 in Monroeville, Alabama, Nelle Harper Lee was born to Amasa Coleman Lee and Frances Finch Lee. Along with her siblings, Alice, Louise, and Edwin, Harper was educated in Monroeville Public Schools before going on to attend Huntingdon College in Montgomery, Alabama. After a year at Huntingdon, Lee decided to follow in the footsteps of her father and began studying law at the University of Alabama in 1945 [2]. She left there to study abroad at Oxford University, Wellington Court in England [4]. After returning to the United States, she continued her education at the University of Alabama. However, in 1950, six months prior to completing her law degree, Lee moved to New York hoping to begin a career as a writer. During this time, she worked as a reservation clerk with Eastern Airlines and British Overseas Airways. She also worked in Holcombe, Kansas, as a research assistant for Truman Capote's novel In Cold Blood [6]. In 1957, Lee submitted a manuscript to JB Lippincott Company, which consisted of two essays and three short stories. She was advised to re-write her work perhaps by expanding one of the short stories into a novel. For the next two and a half years, Lee revised the work under the supervision of her editor, Tay Hohoff [6]. Finally, in 1960, Harper Lee's first and only book, To Kill a Mockingbird, was published. The story, which is set in a small Alabama town during the 1930's, is narrated by Scout, a six year old girl. She tells the events surrounding a court case in which her father, Atticus Finch, defends a black man, Tom Robinson, who has been wrongly accused of raping Mayella Ewell, a white woman [4]. The novel was extremely successful, selling over fifteen millio... ....ca/Culture/HarperLee/bio.html>. 3. "Harper Lee: A Biography." Elysium. 24 Sept. 2000. (Accessed 1 Oct. 2000) . 4. Liukkonen, Petri. "Calendar of Authors." Pegasos. 1999. (Accessed 1 Oct. 2000) . 5. Montgomery, Leigh. "Harper Lee Still Prizes Privacy Over Publicity." The Christian Science Monitor. 11 Sept. 1997. (Accessed 1 Oct. 2000) . 6. Sigelman, Katherine. "ClassicNotes on Harper Lee." Classicnotes by GradeSaver. 6 Feb. 2000. (Accessed 1 Oct. 2000) . Note: Picture of Harper Lee courtesy of the Chebucto Community Net. .

Ogre to Slay, Outsource It to Chinese Essay

David Barbosas brilliantly engages his audience with a catchy title that urges the reader to complete the piece to understand what it is that he is discussing. â€Å"Ogre to Slay? Outsource It to Chinese† is eye-catching and its content and is very thought-provoking and well researched. His preparation for the article includes him finding sources in China, who are engaged in illegal outsourcing of computer game players and contributing to what the Chinese government are attempting to halt, what they call â€Å"internet addiction†. Not only does Barbosas find these valuable sources for information and quote them, he also cites workers in these gaming factories. The effort of his research and concise conclusions to an interesting technological issue makes this piece very well put together and easily readable and understandable to a diverse audience. Barbosas says that this is an issue that spans from â€Å"Seoul to San Francisco† and he is very eloquent in his comparison between the affluent gamers, who are willing to pay Chinese workers to complete initial rounds of computer games and the gamers, themselves, who work 12 hour days, 7 days a week for a mere $250 a month. He does well, also, in showing the change of contrast from what has in history been a clear line between fantasy and reality to illustrate how these lines have blurred. He makes the point of outlining the beginning of the changes in the virtual world of gaming, when gamers began playing others worldwide a few years ago and then when they began becoming so enmeshed with their avatars (or characters that they create), that they pay others to essentially baby-sit them, as the Chinese do or use virtual currency to buy components, such as weapons to help their avatars. Barbosas does well in explaining the complex and intricate world of virtual gaming to even readers, who have no familiarity of the subject. He simultaneously delves into explaining this strange new world while vividly describing the Chinese workers behind the scenes or, more accurately, behind the screens. He paints an interesting picture of what he refers to as, â€Å"virtual sweatshops†. There gamers are playing in dark basements, surrounding by posters of the games they play. These Chinese farmers make up an estimated 40-50% of the gamers involved worldwide in these popular games and it is believed that 1 in 4 internet users in China use their online connection for gaming. In addition to the other staggering statistics Barbosas integrates into his commentary, he integrates what those involved in gaming have to say and what experts share on this issue. One conclusion by an American professor is that this illustrates how the time of Americans is valued more over the time of persons in countries, such as China. In contrast, one owner of a â€Å"sweatshop† believes that if these gamers were not working for him that they would be going back to hard farm work with smaller wages or on the streets. In conclusion, Barbosas shows his journalistic talent in this piece. His research, illustrated by interview citations and statistics, demonstrate his expertise in this strange, technological world. He presents many trends in the world of gaming, in reality versus fantasy, and in the currency involved in these questionable online enterprises. His work is easily readable by a wide audience and his lead-in to the article with it’s catchy title definitely lives up to the interest that title holds.