BEFORE THE CYCLONE SEASON
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Check with your local council or your building control authority to see if your home has been built to cyclone standards.
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Check that the walls, roof and eaves of your home are secure.
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Trim treetops and branches well clear of your home (get council permission).
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Preferably fit shutters, or at least metal screens, to all glass areas.
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Clear your property of loose material that could blow about and possibly cause injury or damage during extreme winds.
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In case of a storm surge/tide warning, or other flooding, know your nearest safe high ground and the safest access route to it.
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Prepare an emergency kit containing:
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a portable battery radio, torch and spare batteries;
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water containers, dried or canned food and a can opener;
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matches, fuel lamp, portable stove, cooking gear, eating utensils; and
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a first aid kit and manual, masking tape for windows and waterproof bags.
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Keep a list of emergency phone numbers on display.
Check neighbours, especially if recent arrivals, to make sure they are prepared.
WHEN A CYCLONE WATCH IS ISSUED
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Re-check your property for any loose material and tie down (or fill with water) all large, relatively light items such as boats and rubbish bins.
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Fill vehicles' fuel tanks. Check your emergency kit and fill water containers.
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Ensure household members know which is the strongest part of the house and what to do in the event of a cyclone warning or an evacuation.
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Tune to your local radio/TV for further information and warnings.
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Check that neighbours are aware of the situation and are preparing.
WHEN A CYCLONE WARNING IS ISSUED
Depending on official advice provided by your local authorities as the event evolves; the following actions may be warranted.
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If requested by local authorities, collect children from school or childcare centre and go home.
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Park vehicles under solid shelter (hand brake on and in gear).
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Put wooden or plastic outdoor furniture in your pool or inside with other loose items.
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Close shutters or board-up or heavily tape all windows. Draw curtains and lock doors.
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Pack an evacuation kit of warm clothes, essential medications, baby formula, nappies,
valuables, important papers, photos and mementos in waterproof bags to be taken with
your emergency kit. Large/heavy valuables could be protected in a strong cupboard.
Remain indoors (with your pets). Stay tuned to your local radio/TV for further information.
ON WARNING OF LOCAL EVACUATION
Based on predicted wind speeds and storm surge heights, evacuation may be necessary.
Official advice will be given on local radio/TV regarding safe routes and when to move.
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Wear strong shoes (not thongs) and tough clothing for protection.
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Lock doors; turn off power, gas, and water; take your evacuation and emergency kits.
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If evacuating inland (out of town), take pets and leave early to avoid heavy traffic, flooding and wind hazards.
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If evacuating to a public shelter or higher location, follow police and State/Territory Emergency Services directions.
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If going to a public shelter, take bedding needs and books or games for children.
Leave pets protected and with food and water.
WHEN THE CYCLONE STRIKES
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Disconnect all electrical appliances. Listen to your battery radio for updates.
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Stay inside and shelter {well clear of windows) in the strongest part of the building,
i.e. cellar, internal hallway or bathroom. Keep evacuation and emergency kits with you.
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If the building starts to break up, protect yourself with mattresses, rugs or blankets under a
strong table or bench or hold onto a solid fixture, e.g. a water pipe.
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Beware the calm 'eye'. If the wind drops, don't assume the cyclone is over; violent winds
will soon resume from another direction. Wait for the official 'all clear'.
If driving, stop (handbrake on and in gear) - but well away from the sea and clear of trees,
power lines and streams. Stay in the vehicle.
AFTER THE CYCLONE
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Don't go outside until officially advised it is safe.
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Check for gas leaks. Don't use electric appliances if wet.
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Listen to local radio for official warnings and advice.
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If you have to evacuate, or did so earlier, don't return until advised. Use a recommended route and don't rush.
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Beware of damaged power lines, bridges, buildings, trees, and don't enter floodwaters.
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Heed all warnings and don't go sightseeing. Check/help neighbours instead.
Don't make unnecessary telephone calls.