When an emergency occurs it is vital that you and your family are prepared to either evacuate immediately or have the resources available at home to be able to live comfortably for several days without power, water and access to shops. Whilst this sounds like scaremongering, unfortunately each year emergencies occur in Kwinana and its surrounds. Because of our location, the threat of bushfires, severe storms, cyclones, tsunamis and earthquakes is a possibility and therefore something that we need to be prepared for.
If an emergency occurs, knowing that you have a plan in place will help you stay calm and handle the situation better. Plan now – don't wait until it's too late!
Develop an emergency plan
Make sure you are aware of all of the potential emergencies that may occur in the Town of Kwinana and make sure your plan will apply to all. Take the time now to sit down with all of your family members and make sure that everyone is aware of what to do, and if separated where to go, should an emergency occur.
Prepare your property for all emergencies
Find out how to turn off your power, water and gas supplies.
Cut lawns and keep them short (and green, ideally)
Remove dead grass
Remove dead branches from trees and any that are overhanging your property
Arrange for a qualified tree doctor ro remove tree branches overhanging power lines
Remove piles of rubbish and paper, particularly from near buildings
Remove leaf litter from gutters and roofs
Install smoke alarms and ensure existing ones are working
Take advantage of the 3 greenwaste and 1 hardwaste pickup every year
Ensure loose items that could possibly damage your property in strong winds are secured
Maintain your firebreaks
Prepare your emergency survival kit
The following list of items are an example of what could be in your kit, however the list is dependent on individuals needs and should be carefully thought out.
Battery operated transistor radio on hand to listen to alerts
Torch (with spare batteries), candles and waterproof matches
First aid kit and manual
Water in containers - ten litres per person (for three days)
Medications, toiletries, sanitary supplies
Change of clothes, strong shoes and gloves, goggles
Three days supply of canned foods, can opener, plate and utensils
Combination pocket knife
Food and items for your animal (see ‘Animal management in an emergency' leaflet)
