Evacuation plan

If you live in an area prone to cyclones, floods or  bushfires, planning for an evacuation now will save you time and stress.  Prepare for evacuation in 3 steps.

Step 1—Research

  • Is your area likely to be affected by flooding,  storm surge or tsunami?
    • Check with your local council and library for information on potential hazards.
    • Check with your local council about local warning systems, evacuation process and nominated evacuation  routes.
  • What support is available to you and your  household in case of emergency?
    • Ask for contact details of local support  agencies.
    • If your household will need support to evacuate,  find out what help is available from your local council and support agencies.
  • Decide how you will prepare your pets if you cannot take them with you.

Step 2—Record details on your evacuation plan

  • Identify a safe place to evacuate to.
    • Family or friends living in secure accommodation  further inland on higher ground are the best option.
    • Record the contact and location details of your  evacuation options in your plan.
  • Create a checklist for everything you need to do  before evacuating, and ensure household members know how to do these things.  For example
    • storing  electrical items off the ground
    • switching off water, power and gas at the mains
    • sandbagging your toilets and drains.

Step 3—Prepare your evacuation kit, stay prepared  and keep informed

Your evacuation kit is designed to be an addition to your  emergency kit and includes additional supplies to keep your family safe in case  you need to leave your home for a few days.

Gather everything you need  for your evacuation well in advance. If you get the order to evacuate, you may  not have much time, and essential supplies may not be available.

Keep the kit in a sturdy,  easy-to-carry bag or waterproof storage box, and store in a safe place that is  easy to access.