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Emergency Preparedness

When preparing for a possible emergency situation, it's best to think first about the basics of survival: fresh water, food, clean air, and warmth. Also consider or understand the most likely scenarios that could happen to you, and your family, in your environment. It is all about Risk Analysis.

In New Zealand, the risks posed by natural and man-made hazards are a fact of life. This information will show you how to look after yourself, your family, your home, business and community.

The rule of thumb is for you to be prepared to cope on your own for up to three days, or more...

Everyone will be affected by a disaster, including the rescuers that we rely on. Immediately after an event, emergency services and civil defence staff will have to respond to the most critical demands. This means they may not get to everyone who needs help as quickly as needed. It could be several days before services are restored. Even then, access may be limited. Damaged infrastructure, such as roads, bridges and rail lines, will take longer to restore. This is when you will be most vulnerable. Get ready now to protect yourself, your loved ones and your community.

Any one of the following may affect you and your family at any time and being prepared and in getting ready to get through, is therefore simply common sense.

Pandemic
Power Outages
Droughts
Fires
Earthquakes
Fault Shifts and Landslides
Floods
Snow and Freezing Conditions
Avalanches
Hurricanes
Tornados
Tsunamis
Volcanic Eruptions and Lahas

When disaster strikes...

Knowing what to do in the event of a disaster can help to keep you and your family safe. For detailed advice about what to do during a disaster such as flood, storm or earthquake, refer to the New Zealand Government website: www.getthru.govt.nz

Radio stations to listen to...

The following Radio Networks will carry civil defence information and advice in an emergency:

Radio New Zealand National
Newstalk ZB
Classic Hits
More FM
Radio Live

Know how to tune into one of these stations in your area and record the station bandwidth in your Emergency Plan.

Tip		Check with your local council and Civil Defence Emergency Management Group about the warning system in your local community and make sure you know what actions you must take when you hear this warning

Tip		Learn First Aid and Fire Safety Techniques

Tip		Make sure your home is quake-safe

Tip		Ensure your insurance cover is adequate and up to date

Tip		Find out how to help others. Get to know your neighbours to see who may need assistance. Consider becoming a volunteer in your community

Tip		When buying a new home, make sure you know what hazards could affect the area. Go to your council and request a LIM (Land Information Memorandum) or PIM (Property Information Memorandum)

Tip		Get ready at work. Know what your workplace emergency plan is

Tip		Ask your child's school for a copy of their emergency plan for you to keep at home or work.

Tip		Remember to teach your children how and when to call 111, any neighbour, or other local Emergency Services number for help.

Tip		Remember to review your plan regularly, update contact information and check the supplies in your kit to be sure nothing has expired, spoiled or changed.

Tip		Drive your planned evacuation route and plot alternate routes on a map in case main roads are blocked or grid locked. (eg also in case of a Tsunami Warning)

Tip		You should have at least one traditionally wired landline phone, as cordless or cellular phones may not work in an emergency.

Tip		Find out in advance where you can take your pets when an emergency happens in your community.

Tip		Include your child's favourite stuffed animals, board games, books or CD player and CDs with your emergency supplies. Small things can make big differences.

Tip		Be sure to conduct fire drills and practice evacuating your home twice a year.

Tip		Keep in mind a disaster can disrupt the mail service for days or even weeks.