Planning for disasters

The following actions will help to ensure you, your family and your home is prepared in the event of a disaster:

If you are going on holidays it is a good idea to empty, clean and unplug the refrigerator and freezer and leave their doors open. These actions should avoid food spoilage problems in the event of power failure.
You should also switch off the hot water system at the main switchboard and unplug your electrical equipment to avoid damage caused by possible power surges.
Have alternative cooking equipment, for example a gas BBQ.
Make copies of all important documents and store them in a water-tight container
Check that you have the appropriate level of insurance on your home.
Check the policy on your contents insurance to see if you are covered for damage from floodwaters etc.
Keep your car regularly fuelled.

Keep trees around your home trimmed and de-nut coconut palms.
Ensure trees are not near powerlines. If so, call Ergon Energy for advice (do not attempt to remove them yourself).
Keep your garden tidy of rubbish and leaf litter.

Be sure to have a first aid kit.
Consider being trained in CPR and other First Aid.
Have a good stock of tinned food for the family and any pets (eg. 4 days worth).
Consider having a generator connected to your home in case of power failure.
Have a listing of important phone numbers handy.
Maintain an emergency kit for you and your family.

Secure loose outside items, for example pot plants, hardware, outdoor furniture and rubbish bins.
Remove valuable items off the floor and away from windows in case of flooding and flying debris.
Secure valuable items in a waterproof container you are also able to evacuate with if necessary.
Fill your bath, laundry tub and appropriate containers with water, in the event the water supply is cut.
Secure your car undercover.
Board or tape all windows and secure all doors.
Freeze water for alternative refrigeration should there be a power failure.
Charge electronic devices, such as mobile phones and laptops, in case of power failure

Do not evacuate unless you have been advised to do so.
Stay safe, stay indoors. Shelter in the strongest part of the house, this is often the bathroom, internal toilet or passageway.
In a severe cyclone, mattresses and blankets will assist protecting yourself and your family. Also consider anchoring yourselves to or under a strong fixture, for example a sturdy bed or table.
Emergency kits should always be close to hand.
Battery powered radios should always be turned on.
If the eye of the cyclone is passing, beware that winds will recommence. Stay home, stay calm, stay safe.

Stay indoors until authorities advise that it is safe to go outside.
Stay away from floodwaters.
Do not go sightseeing
Stay away from fallen powerlines - they could be 'live'.
Avoid making unnecessary phone calls - the phone system may be limited and should be kept available for emergency services.