February 2016 - Disaster Preparedness Checklists

Storm & Cyclone Checklist

• Check home building & contents insurance sum insured
• Check & clear gutters & downpipes
• Check the roof for damaged or loose tiles & sheeting
• Trim overgrown tree branches. DO NOT attempt to trim trees near power lines
• Remove or secure loose items that could become projectiles during high winds
• Have an emergency kit, including a battery operated radio, reliable torch & spare batteries, canned food, can opener, water, first-aid kit & blankets.

Bushfire Checklist

• Prepare a Bushfire Survival Plan that details how you & your family will respond to an emergency
• Mow the lawn regularly
• Remove dry grass, dead leaves & branches from yards
• Move any flammable items such as wood piles away from the house
• Trim low-lying branches
• Keep gutters clear of leaf litter
• Know the fire risk in your local area
• Check & adhere to local fire restrictions

Wet weather/Storm Driving Checklist

• Park your vehicle under cover if possible – never park under trees
• Don’t speed up to beat a storm. Instead seek a safe place to shelter until it passes
• Turn on headlights to increase your visibility. If necessary pull off the side of the road to avoid being hit by other vehicles & turn on your hazard lights
• Never drive through flood waters- even shallow flowing waters can sweep vehicles away
• Don’t park in areas that have flooded in the past.