Plan to play it safe

NOW that cyclone season is here, Townsville residents need to develop their household emergency plans, including evacuation and shelter considerations, based on their circumstances and exposure to risk.

Residents and visitors should plan and prepare to shelter in a safe and secure structure either at home or with family and friends, or relocate outside the warning area.

Follow these key steps to determine your best sheltering option in the event of a cyclone. What is your risk? • Consider the location of your home and review the Storm Tide Evacuation Guide.

• Consider the construction and condition of your home. Do you live in an older home ( built before 1982) that is poorly maintained, or do you live in a caravan or temporary dwelling?

• Consider your needs. Do you live alone, have pets or have special needs?

Consider your shelter options

• Shelter in place – If you live in a well- constructed home located outside of a Storm Tide Evacuation Zone, your best option is to shelter in your home.

• Evacuate to shelter in a safer place – If you are potentially at risk, prearrange your evacuation with friends or family first.

Consider commercial commodation or shelter acop- tions in your community as a last resort.

Shelters Centres

• Designated facilities may be used as Shelters ( pre- impact), including Public Cyclone Shelter and Place of Refuge, and Evacuation Centres ( postimpact).

• The decision to prepare and open buildings as Shelters and Evacuation or Evacuation Centres will be made by the Townsville Local Disaster Management Group and broadcast to the community via local media.

• You should listen to radio or contact the council for the location of buildings designated for this use during an event.

• Download a copy of the Shelter and Evacuation Options for residents of the Townsville region brochure at www. townsville. qld. gov. au

• Voluntary evacuation notices and directed evacuation notices can be issued by the district disaster co- ordinator and the Local Disaster Management Group.

More information on Voluntary Evacuation Notices and Directed Evacuation Notices can be found at www. townsville. qld. gov. au When you evacuate… • Turn off electricity, gas and water, and make sure your home is locked and secure.

• Tie a light- coloured cloth to your front door, letterbox, fence or other highly visible area. This will inform emergency services you have already evacuated and they do not need to expend valuable time checking.

• Notify a family member or friend outside of the threat area that you have evacuated and where you are going. Get this person to advise other family and friends.

• Pets will not be allowed into shelters. Be sure to make other arrangements for their care in advance.