What can be done to decrease the chance of cyclones/minimize the effect:
Cyclones are a force of nature and there is nothing that we can do to stop them but there are things that we can do to decrease the effect they have on us through risk management.
Before Cyclone Season:
1. Make sure your home meets the building requirements for cyclone prone area standards. If it does not, the necessary changes need to be made before cyclone season begins. When it does, your house needs to be made "cyclone ready", by repairing any lose roof tiles and eves, ensuring that all windows are fitted with shutters or metal screens and trimming any tree branches that are hanging over your house and removing any rubbish and debris from around your property.
2. Check that your insurance covers cyclone damage including clean-up and debris removal.
3. Create an evacuation plan with your family detailing a safe place to evacuate as well as preparing an emergency kit that includes:
Educating the public about what to do before, in and after a cyclone can save great loss to property, possessions and life. It will also help make the recovery/clean up period easier.
Before Cyclone Season:
1. Make sure your home meets the building requirements for cyclone prone area standards. If it does not, the necessary changes need to be made before cyclone season begins. When it does, your house needs to be made "cyclone ready", by repairing any lose roof tiles and eves, ensuring that all windows are fitted with shutters or metal screens and trimming any tree branches that are hanging over your house and removing any rubbish and debris from around your property.
2. Check that your insurance covers cyclone damage including clean-up and debris removal.
3. Create an evacuation plan with your family detailing a safe place to evacuate as well as preparing an emergency kit that includes:
- A portable radio
- A torch and spare batteries
- A first aid kit
- Non-perishable food
- Sturdy gloves
- Any important mementos or valuables
- Waterproof bags
- Candles and matches
- Essential medications
- Warm clothing
- Pillows and blankets
- Cash in waterproof bags
- Copies of important documents (eg insurance details, birth certificates, prescription refills) in sealable plastic bags
Educating the public about what to do before, in and after a cyclone can save great loss to property, possessions and life. It will also help make the recovery/clean up period easier.