Personal Cyclone Preparedness and Safety Procedures

The Queensland Government has a range of information and advice for preparing for disasters, including how to prepare your emergency plan and prepare your home.

BEFORE THE CYCLONE SEASON

• Check with your local council or your building control authority to see if your home has been built to cyclone standards.

• Check that the walls, roof and eaves of your home are secure.

• Trim treetops and branches well clear of your home (get council permission).

• Preferably fit shutters, or at least metal screens, to all glass areas.

• Clear your property of loose material that could blow about and possibly cause injury or damage during extreme winds.

• In case of a storm surge/tide warning, or other flooding, know your nearest safe high ground and the safest access route to it.

• Prepare an emergency kit containing:

  • a portable battery radio, torch and spare batteries;

  • water containers, dried or canned food and a can opener;

  • matches, fuel lamp, portable stove, cooking gear, eating utensils; and

  • a first aid kit and manual, masking tape for windows and waterproof bags.

• 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

• 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.

• Fill vehicles' fuel tanks. Check your emergency kit and fill water containers.

• 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.

• Tune to your local radio/TV for further information and warnings.

• 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.

• If requested by local authorities, collect children from school or childcare centre and go home.

• Park vehicles under solid shelter (hand brake on and in gear).

• Put wooden or plastic outdoor furniture in your pool or inside with other loose items.

• Close shutters or board-up or heavily tape all windows. Draw curtains and lock doors.

• 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.

• Wear strong shoes (not thongs) and tough clothing for protection.

• Lock doors; turn off power, gas, and water; take your evacuation and emergency kits.

• If evacuating inland (out of town), take pets and leave early to avoid heavy traffic, flooding and wind hazards.

• If evacuating to a public shelter or higher location, follow police and State/Territory Emergency Services directions.

• 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

• Disconnect all electrical appliances. Listen to your battery radio for updates.

• 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.

• 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.

• 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

• Don't go outside until officially advised it is safe.

• Check for gas leaks. Don't use electric appliances if wet.

• Listen to local radio for official warnings and advice.

• If you have to evacuate, or did so earlier, don't return until advised. Use a recommended route and don't rush.

• Beware of damaged power lines, bridges, buildings, trees, and don't enter floodwaters.

• Heed all warnings and don't go sightseeing. Check/help neighbours instead.

Don't make unnecessary telephone calls.