Seeing emergencies and natural disasters across the world has reminded all of us that you need a household emergency plan in case we ever find ourselves in a crisis. The best way to stay safe in an emergency is to be informed and prepared.
In recent years, climate induced extreme weather events from droughts to bushfires to floods, have become more frequent. Emergencies can strike anytime, anywhere and without warning. At least one in three Australians face a disaster in their lifetime, and with climate related disasters on the rise, being prepared can make an emergency less stressful and improve the speed of recovery.
The Australian Red Cross is reminding all of us in Emergency Ready Week, 18 – 24 September, with its “Get Ready” Resilient Sydney program, to assess your emergency plans.
As a participating Council in the Resilient Sydney program, we are collaborating with other councils in Sydney to create a metropolis that is connected, inclusive and resilient.
One way to prepare is by downloading and completing a RediPlan on the free Get Prepared app, co-created by Australian Red Cross and general insurer NRMA. The Get Prepared app connects you with your key support people, accomplish simple tasks to make you and your loved ones safer, and create a household emergency plan.
Being prepared can give you more control, save time and reduce the impact on you and those you love. It is important to set time aside every year to reassess your plan with your family members.
To get emergency ready, I suggest these steps:
Download the Get Prepared app – get ready to make an emergency plan for your household to protect what matters most with this app that is IOS and Android compatible. You can also download a paper version to create an emergency RediPlan.
Work through your plan and share it – establish your network of support with your three key contacts. Share your plan with the people you know and can ask for help in an emergency. Your current emergency plan is always available and easy to share with anyone you’re connected with.
Download and use the survival kit checklist – Make a plan using the simple checklists that help you complete the important actions that make you prepared for emergencies.
To report a hazard, use Council’s that is on our website and app.
Council has an official Emergency Information page to help you understand and identify local risks such as floods, storms, fires, loss of utilities and public health emergencies. On these pages you will find information to help you prepare for and respond to emergencies.
Please visit to learn more and download the Get Prepared App.
