In a disaster, high winds, fire, or rising floodwaters can prevent emergency services from reaching you. Debris, damage and fallen power lines can cut road access. Your community and your family could become isolated for up to three days or more.
Even if you live just around the corner from a shopping centre, you may not be able to get there. And even if you could, the shops may be closed due to damage.
After a disaster has passed, roads can be closed and essential services such as power, gas and water supply, and phone communications are usually disrupted. Where a large number of people are affected, emergency services will be focused on assisting the most vulnerable in the community during an event.
Depending on your circumstances, you may not have immediate access to support and will need to rely on the supplies and equipment you have at home.
[WHAT-IF] you were isolated by a disaster right now, are you ready?
Making an emergency plan is not hard work.
Develop your Emergency Plan with the entire household and start asking [WHAT-IF]. Here's a couple of questions to get you started.
- [WHAT-IF] you live in a flood prone area and your home is at risk from storm tide or fire is a constant threat - what would you do?
- [WHAT-IF] you’re separated from family or friends when a disaster happens (at work or school etc.)? How will you stay in touch and where will you meet up?
- [WHAT-IF] you need to evacuate your household? Where would you go?
- [WHAT-IF] you need to contact someone for assistance? What emergency contact phone numbers should be listed?
- [WHAT-IF] a disaster happens tomorrow? What is everyone's role in preapring?
If anyone in your family, household or neighborhood has specific medical conditions or special needs, they may need assistance before, during and after a disaster. Think about:
- including specific items in your Emergency Kit to assist people with communication or mobility difficulty
- arranging to notify anyone with a hearing impairment of emergency warnings and other key information
- arranging assistance for anyone with a sight impairment or mobility difficulty if evacuation is required
Vist the Get Ready website for more tips and planning assistance. Stay safe this summer.
