Make plans now before it’s too late

IT ISN’T hard to plan for a cyclone, but leaving everything to the last minute will create unnecessary headaches for you and your family.

Shops run out of batteries, the queues at petrol stations go round the block and there’s a risk some family members won’t be clear on what to do when a cyclone arrives.

Thinking ahead not only makes life easier, it may actually save your life.

Here are a few tips to help you create a household cyclone plan before it’s too late.

Find out whether your property could be affected by a storm tide or surge.

Have your emergency cyclone kit ready. Remember it needs to sustain every person in your household for at least 72 hours.

Plan where your family will shelter and remember to plan for your pets’ safety, too.

If you plan to go to a public shelter, prepare your house and decide on the route you will take.

If you plan to leave town, leave early, be prepared to stay away for several days or longer and ensure you have sufficient food and water to sustain your family.

If there is a chance your family may be separated, include details of how to contact each other or agree on a meeting place in your emergency plan. It’s recommended you arrange an out-of-town friend or relative to be a single point of contact.

Make a list of what you will need to take along if you are evacuated and keep it with your emergency plan.

Don’t leave your decisions to the last moment.

If you have your own transport, remember to fuel it up as early as possible.