Prepare Your Family for an Emergency

Step 1 – Find out what the disaster risks are in your area??

Find out from your local Emergency Management Office or Council the following:

• What types of Disasters are likely to happen and how to prepare each year.
• What’s your community’s warning signals sound like and what to do if you hear them.
• How to help the elderly and people with special needs.

Step 2 - Create a family disaster plan

Hold a family meeting and keep it simple. Emphasise working together as a team during these times.

Ensure you:

•  Educate your children. It is important to educate children about disasters, without overly alarming them.
•  Have a Plan. Talk about the disasters and what are the risks and what to do in case of an event (i.e separation after an event).
•  Evacuation – If you are told to evacuate understand the importance and the urgency of the situation. Have a plan in place to notify friends and family of an evacuation.

Step 3 – Complete the Checklist

Have a checklist readily available for your family.

The checklist should contain phone numbers, emergency kits, emergency supplies and other important documents and things you should do in the event of a disaster.

Step 4 – Practice and maintain your plan.

Ensure the family has a good understanding of the Family Plan and practice the plan on a regular basis.

Go over the family plan and do escape drills. Quiz the children and remember to replace stored food and water on a regular basis. It is also a good idea to replace the batteries in smoke alarms, torches, radio’s and other electronic equipment that may be necessary during a disaster at least every 12 months.

It is also important to meet with your neighbours to plan how you can work together during a disaster.

Talk about who has special skills (medical, technical, building) and also make arrangements for children if parents can get home.