Thanks Novice. Just to add. It is ok to take the 3 refuges
without taking the 5 precepts if a person is not ready for the 5
precepts yet.
oh yah yes.... It's definitely okay... except for Theravada
tradition 
Thx..! I think i'm too focus on the precepts part... Should add
more info on refuge first
Addition
Reasons for Taking Refuge
If
people observe the world around them carefully, they are bound to
notice the pain, suffering and frustrations experienced by sentient
beings. A Buddhist will look for a way to end such distressing
conditions in life just as a traveller caught in a storm will seek
shelter. If the traveller is able to find shelter inside a building
that is strong and safe, he will call out to others who are still
struggling in the storm outdoors to join him in this safe refuge.
Similarly, a person chooses to become a Buddhist when he
understands who the Buddha is, and how the Buddha, Dharma and
Sangha can provide him the way to end suffering. Out of compassion,
he will also encourage others to take the same
refuge.
The
Buddha, Dharma and Sangha are called the Triple Gem because they
represent qualities which are excellent and precious like a gem.
Once a person recognises these unique qualities after careful
consideration and is confident that the Triple Gem can help lead
him towards happiness and Enlightenment, he takes refuge. It is,
therefore, not out of mere faith, but with an open-minded attitude
and enquiring spirit that he begins to practise the Buddha's
Teaching. In a way, he resembles the scientist who decides to carry
out a research project once he is confident that it will bring
positive results
http://www.buddhanet.net/e-learning/buddhism/bs-s17.htm
