Surviving Cyclones: Preparation and Safety Procedures

The information in this checklist was prepared by Emergency Management Australia in consultation with State/Territory Emergency Services to help protect you and your property.

Before the cyclone season

• Check with your local council or your building control authority to see if your home has been built to cyclone standards.
• Check that the walls, roof and eaves of your home are secure.
• Trim treetops and branches well clear of your home (get council permission).
• Preferably fit shutters, or at least metal screens, to all glass areas.
• Clear your property of loose material that could blow about and possibly cause injury or damage during extreme winds.
• In case of a storm surge/tide warning, or other flooding, know your nearest safe high ground and the safest access route to it.
• Prepare an emergency kit containing:
  • a portable battery radio, torch and spare batteries;
  • water containers, dried or canned food and a can opener;
  • matches, fuel lamp, portable stove, cooking gear, eating utensils; and
  • a first aid kit and manual, masking tape for windows and waterproof bags.
• Keep a list of emergency phone numbers on display.
• Check neighbours, especially if recent arrivals, to make sure they are prepared.

When a cyclone watch is issued

• Re-check your property for any loose material and tie down (or fill with water) all large, relatively light items such as boats and rubbish bins.
• Fill vehicles' fuel tanks. Check your emergency kit and fill water containers.
• Ensure household members know which is the strongest part of the house and what to do in the event of a cyclone warning or an evacuation.
• Tune to your local radio/TV for further information and warnings.
• Check that neighbours are aware of the situation and are preparing.

When a cyclone warning is issued

Depending on official advice provided by your local authorities as the event evolves; the following actions may be warranted.

• If requested by local authorities, collect children from school or childcare centre and go home.
• Park vehicles under solid shelter (hand brake on and in gear).
• Put wooden or plastic outdoor furniture in your pool or inside with other loose items.
• Close shutters or board-up or heavily tape all windows. Draw curtains and lock doors.
• Pack an evacuation kit of warm clothes, essential medications, baby formula, nappies,
  valuables, important papers, photos and mementos in waterproof bags to be taken with
  your emergency kit. Large/heavy valuables could be protected in a strong cupboard.
• Remain indoors (with your pets). Stay tuned to your local radio/TV for further information.

On warning of local evacuation

Based on predicted wind speeds and storm surge heights, evacuation may be necessary.
Official advice will be given on local radio/TV regarding safe routes and when to move.

• Wear strong shoes (not thongs) and tough clothing for protection.
• Lock doors; turn off power, gas, and water; take your evacuation and emergency kits.
• If evacuating inland (out of town), take pets and leave early to avoid heavy traffic, flooding and wind hazards.
• If evacuating to a public shelter or higher location, follow police and State/Territory Emergency Services directions.
• If going to a public shelter, take bedding needs and books or games for children.
• Leave pets protected and with food and water.

When the cyclone strikes

• Disconnect all electrical appliances. Listen to your battery radio for updates.
• Stay inside and shelter {well clear of windows) in the strongest part of the building,
  i.e. cellar, internal hallway or bathroom. Keep evacuation and emergency kits with you.
• If the building starts to break up, protect yourself with mattresses, rugs or blankets under a
  strong table or bench or hold onto a solid fixture, e.g. a water pipe.
• Beware the calm 'eye'. If the wind drops, don't assume the cyclone is over; violent winds
  will soon resume from another direction. Wait for the official 'all clear'.
• If driving, stop (handbrake on and in gear) - but well away from the sea and clear of trees,
  power lines and streams. Stay in the vehicle.

After the cyclone

• Don't go outside until officially advised it is safe.
• Check for gas leaks. Don't use electric appliances if wet.
• Listen to local radio for official warnings and advice.
• If you have to evacuate, or did so earlier, don't return until advised. Use a recommended route and don't rush.
• Beware of damaged power lines, bridges, buildings, trees, and don't enter floodwaters.
• Heed all warnings and don't go sightseeing. Check/help neighbours instead.
• Don't make unnecessary telephone calls.

Note: Managers of resorts, hotels, motels, and caravan parks should take steps to ensure visitors are aware of the dangers and know what to do in the event of a cyclone. Free Protecting Caravans information is available from your State/Territory Emergency Service.