Before a Disaster

Households that plan for emergencies have a significantly reduced risk associated with disasters. Preparing that you are aware of your risks and what to do if there is a flood, fire, storm or tsunami, can save your life, your family members, and community members. 

Steps you can take to plan before a disaster happens:

 
Know your risk:
  • Check the hazards in your location. 
  • Check your personal situation. 
  • Check the strengths and weaknesses of your property.
  • Assess your neighborhood and communication.
  • Collate information for your extreme weather plan.
  • Know the risk to you, your animals and your property.
Know Your Neighbor:
  • Do you have your neighbours' contact details? Do you have a system in place to check in with each other?
  • Work with your neighbours to identify evacuation routes and plan what you will do in the event of a natural disaster.
  • Are your neighbours elderly and may not have access to digital resources? Share your contact details with them in case of a natural disaster and do your part in keeping the community safe.
Protect your Animals, Property and Livestock:
  • Impacts of Floods, Fire and Storms can limit access to your livestock, pets and property. Taking action now can keep you, your family and animals safe and reduce the impact on your property and business.
  • Create a Pet Emergency Plan with SES Australia to ensure your furry friends are catered for in an emergency.
  • The Department of Primary Industries offers extensive readiness tactics to protect pets, livestock and your property prior to and emergency. 
  • Local Land Services help landholders plan and prepare for, respond to, and recover from biosecurity emergencies and natural disasters by providing advice about emergency property planning and preparedness.

 
Get your home ready! 
  • 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.
  • Make sure your smoke alarms are working. 
  • Make sure that your home and contents insurance is up to date.

 

Check your insurances:

  • Make sure your insurance is suitable to your situation and risk.
  • Check the coverage is adequate.
  • Make sure your insurance is current.

 
Be Aware & Connected

Register for SMS alerts from Councils Flood Warning System

Bushfire advice and warnings, download the Hazards Near Me app, or visit the Rural Fire Service (RFS) website, Facebook or Twitter.

Flood advice and warnings, download the Hazards Near Me app, visit the State Emergency Service (SES) website, Facebook, or phone 132 500.

Storm advice and warnings, download the Hazards Near Me app, visit the State Emergency Service (SES) website, or phone 132 500.

Weather plays an important part in natural disasters. Monitor your local weather warnings, visit the Bureau of Meteorology (BOM), or download the BOM app

Tune in to the emergency radio broadcaster, ABC Local radio. In fires or storms power or mobile networks may be down, so a battery-operated radio is a good back-up for updates. Information will also be provided through local radio station 97.9 Valley FM. 

Check the roads are clear to plan a safe evacuation journey. Visit the Live Traffic NSW website, and download the Live Traffic app.

Follow local Council’s roads and flood updates via the Forbes Shire Council Facebook page.