Prepare an Emergency Kit

Special food and medication may be required for infant, elderly or disabled family members. Every family should have a fully stocked Emergency Kit stored safely in their home. This should include a portable radio, a torch, spare batteries, first aid kit, non-perishable food, sturdy gloves, waterproof bags, candles, matches, essential medications and copies of important documents (eg insurance details, birth certificates, pre!==!--script--==ion refills) in sealable plastic bags.

What to do when a Cyclone Watch or a Cyclone Warning is issued

A Cyclone Watch is issued by the Bureau of Meteorology (BoM) when gales or stronger winds associated with a cyclone are expected to hit within 48 hours but not within 24 hours.

A Cyclone Warning is issued by BoM when gales or stronger winds are expected to hit within 24 hours.

If you hear either a watch or a warning you should:

• Stay tuned into warnings.

• Check that your Emergency Kit is complete and easily accessible.

• Check that your neighbours are aware that a cyclone watch or warning has been issued.

• Clear your property of all loose items. This means bringing outdoor furniture, children?s toys and gardening equipment inside or under cover.

• Secure any boats and move all vehicles and bicycles under cover.

• Fill buckets and bath with water in case water supply becomes restricted and ensure you have sufficient water purification tablets to make the water drinkable.

• Prepare an evacuation kit that includes warm clothes, essential medications, baby formula, nappies, valuables, important papers/photos/mementos in waterproof plastic bags, pillows, sleeping bags and blankets.

• Withdraw a sufficient amount of cash to cover essential items such as food, water or petrol and add this to your Evacuation Kit. (In the event of a power failure, both banks and Automatic Teller Machines may be inaccessible).

• If your windows are fitted with shutters, ensure these are closed securely. If not, tape your windows in a criss-crossing fashion using strong packing tape. This may not prevent your windows from shattering but it will hold the broken glass in place.

• Bring children and pets indoors and remain inside until further advice is given.

How to prepare your home

• Contact your local council to check that your home has been built to cyclone standards.

• Ensure your home and contents insurance covers you for storm surge, flooding and cyclone damage including clean-up and debris removal.

• Check the condition of your roof and repair any loose tiles, eaves or roof screws.

• Ensure windows are fitted with shutters or metal screens.

• Trim any branches overhanging your house and clear gutters of leaves and debris.