Cyclone Season Tips

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An Emergency Kit is an important step to prepare, survive and recover from an emergency and in that kit, you should have the following:

BEFORE THE CYCLONE

• Check your emergency kit is ready and nearby (see below).
• Tie down or pack away all outdoor items and furniture.
• Make sure your vehicle has a full tank of fuel and park under cover if possible.
• Ensure your boat and caravan are garaged or securely tied down to a solid anchor point.
• Have a portable phone charger ready to go! (in case you lose power).

EMERGENCY KIT CHECKLIST

• 10 litres of water per person (fill up the bathtub and buckets with clean water).
• Non-perishable food for at least three days.
• First aid kit and manual.
• Essential medications and prescriptions.
• Torch and spare batteries.
• Battery-powered radio.
• Waterproof jackets and closed shoes.

WHEN A CYCLONE IS APPROACHING

• Tape windows in a criss-cross pattern to reduce shattering.
• Disconnect all electrical appliances and external TV and radio aerials.
• Park vehicles under cover, away from trees, powerlines and waterways.
• Shelter in the strongest part of your house, usually a small room with minimal windows.
• Evacuate caravans and tents.
• If visiting the area, ask your accommodation provider for emergency procedures.
• Fill drinking containers and your bathtub with water in case water supplies are affected.
• Freeze water bottles to use as a backup if power is lost.
• Place important documents and valuables in waterproof containers and store them safely.
• Turn off and unplug all non-essential electrical equipment.

DURING THE CYCLONE

• Continue to listen to your battery-powered radio for all warnings and advice.
• Stay safe inside and keep calm.
• Shelter in the strongest part of the building. This is often the bathroom, toilet or hallway.
• Mattresses and blankets may protect you.
• Beware of the calm eye/centre of the cyclone – stay inside!

AFTER THE CYCLONE

• Stay well clear of fallen power lines and always assume they are live.
• Avoid floodwaters as they may be dangerous.
• Take care with electrical appliances that may have been exposed to water.

PREPARING FOR PETS

• Ensure pets have adequate food, water and any required medications.
• Keep them indoors or in a secure, enclosed area.
• Ensure pets are wearing identification tags.
• Have a pet carrier or leash ready in case of evacuation.
• Keep familiar items like blankets or toys to comfort them during the storm.