REDLANDS households are being told to prepare for the worst before storm clouds gather, with residents urged to be ready to look after themselves for up to a week if power, water, roads or communications are cut.
The message from Redland City Council is simple.
Don’t wait for an emergency warning to start thinking about where you will go, what you will need and who might need help.
Queensland faces more natural disasters than any other state, and while Moreton Bay residents may be conscious of storm surge, severe storms and bushfire risks, flash flooding and wind damage can hit almost anywhere.
Council says “self-reliance” does not mean facing a disaster alone.
It means having the knowledge, plan and basic supplies to keep your household safe until help arrives.
Residents are encouraged to check the disaster risks for their suburb and consider how long power outages, blocked roads, transport disruption or temporary isolation could affect their family.
Every household should have an emergency plan covering where family members will go, how they will contact each other and what they will do if they cannot return home.
Families should identify two evacuation routes, include out-of-town contacts and keep important phone numbers handy for medical services, vets, chemists, insurers, friends and relatives.
Pet owners are also being warned to plan with evacuation centres not always able to accept animals.
Council says residents should consider alternative accommodation with family or friends where possible as evacuation centres provide only short-term, basic support.
Checking insurance details, working out essential household expenses and ensuring personal affairs – including a will – are in order should also form part of the plan.
A waterproof emergency kit should be kept somewhere easy to grab if families need to leave quickly or if they are forced to stay home without power or running water.
The kit should include bottled water, long-life food, a can opener, first-aid supplies, essential medication, hygiene items, a torch, battery-powered radio and spare batteries.
Residents should also keep mobile phone chargers and power banks handy along with special food or supplies for babies and pets.
Copies of important documents should be stored safely in the kit or on a USB.
A quick knock on the door could make a major difference.
Council is urging residents to get to know their neighbours and think about who in the street may need extra support.
