Are you ready for a disaster?
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With storms, floods and fires, now is the time to 'get ready' for any natural disaster.
Being prepared can save lives and help you and your family make better decisions when disaster strikes in five simple steps.
1) Know your risk
Think about the area you live in and the types of disasters that could affect you. Connect with NSW emergency services to find out more about your risk.
2) Plan now for what you'll do
Sit down and talk with your family and plan for what you will do if a disaster affects your area.
Make important decisions such as when to leave, what to take, and what to do with animals. Don't leave it until the last minute. Disasters can happen with little or no warning.
How will you and your family get to a safe place? You could be separated from each other. How will you contact each other?
Think about how you will protect your pets, important documents and valuable personal items.
The emergency service agencies have designed many plans to help you Get Ready for specific hazards like fire and flood.
Prepare an emergency kit
3) Get your home ready
Prepare your home by doing general home maintenance and checking your insurance.
Trim overhanging trees and branches and remove dead and dry vegetation from around the house. Clean out gutters and downpipes. Secure or put away loose items in your yard or balcony. Check the roof is in good repair.
Do a home safety check and make sure your smoke alarms are working. And make sure that your home and contents insurance is up-to-date.
4) Be aware
Know what to do if there is a disaster in your area and be prepared to implement your emergency plan. Check with NSW emergency services to stay informed.
Check the NSW State Emergency Service, NSW Rural Fire Service and Fire and Rescue NSW websites, apps and social media.
5) Look out for each other
Share information with your family, friends, neighbours and those who may need assistance.
Talk about your plans with family, friends and neighbours before an emergency happens. Everyone can help each other in many ways in a disaster.
