Prepare for disasters by making an emergency plan. Get together as a household and make a plan today.
Emergency evacuation plan (PDF, 44KB)
Display your plan where your whole family can see it. Save a digital copy on your phone or computer.
Research hazards and disaster management arrangements for your community
- Check with your local council if severe storms, cyclones, floods, storm surge or tsunamis are likely in your area.
- Research local emergency plans, evacuation zones, and suggested evacuation routes for where you live and work.
- Find out what help is available through local council and support agencies.
- Know how to find out about evacuation centres in your community during a severe weather event. Where are they located? What facilities are available? Will you be able to take your pets?
Discuss possible scenarios and what you could do
- What could happen in a cyclone, storm, flood, or tsunami?
- What would you do in these situations?
- Where might you be when an emergency occurs?
- How will you stay in contact with friends and family?
- Do any members of your household have medical conditions or special needs that must be considered?
- How will you care for your pets and livestock? You may not be able to take them with you if you evacuate.
Think about your shelter or evacuation options
- If you live in a well-constructed home outside a storm tide or flood prone area, plan to shelter in your home.
- Identify the strongest, most protected part of your home to shelter in (preferably away from windows).
- If you do shelter in your home, how long might you be isolated for? How many days of supplies will you need?
- If flooding is a risk, organise your evacuation now so you can shelter in a safer place with friends or family. Think about paid accommodation or evacuation centres as a last resort.
- Each local council will have a different plan for evacuations. Find out yours now so you are prepared.
Think about why you may need to leave
- What are your triggers for leaving?
- Who will you tell? You should let your family, friends, and neighbours know where you have gone in case you need to be contacted.
- If there is a threat to your life, authorities may issue a mandatory direction to evacuate. You must follow this direction and leave.
Make sure everyone is prepared
- Prepare your emergency kit and get your home ready now.
- Make sure everyone knows how to find information about weather events and warnings.
- Update your emergency contact details at your work, school, and childcare centre.
- Make sure everyone (including children) knows to call Triple Zero (000) in an emergency.
- Share your emergency plan with family and friends.
- Practise your plan.