Disaster Planning

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Supporting Others

With extreme weather events on the rise, it’s wise to do some advance planning.

Being prepared for emergencies is especially important for older people and those with health or disability needs. In a crisis, they may require extra assistance to reach safety, or ongoing care and support despite the disruption and chaos that often comes with a civil emergency.

Taking some basic steps to plan ahead can make a significant difference for everyone involved. Families and those receiving home support should contact their provider as soon as possible to confirm the client is safe and being cared for, even if that’s at a different location. This helps providers plan for when and how support services can safely resume.

While support providers have a duty of care to their clients, damaged infrastructure and other challenges can delay assistance. Disasters such as earthquakes, tsunamis, volcanic eruptions, floods, and storms can occur without warning, so it’s important to be prepared.

If you or someone you care for relies on home support services, it’s a good idea to ask your provider how they would manage care during an emergency. For planning advice and some excellent planning tools, visit the Get Ready website.

Preparing for Disasters

The National Emergency Management Agency (NEMA) advises that in times of crisis or civil defence emergency, a battery-powered radio or a car radio remain essential lifelines if power is out and other forms of communication are unavailable.

RNZ is New Zealand’s statutory civil defence lifeline radio broadcaster, providing vital information and updates as they come to hand. All frequencies can be found here. Or check with your Civil Defence Emergency Management Group to find out what local stations they recommend you should listen to during an emergency.

Find your local Civil Defence group here. 

Stock up on emergency supplies

Keep these where you can find them in a hurry and/or in the dark.

  • Water for three days or more — make sure you have at least nine litres of water for every person. This will be enough for drinking and basic hygiene.
  • Food with a long shelf life, and food for babies and pets.
  • Toilet paper and large plastic buckets for an emergency toilet.
  • Work gloves and a properly-fitted P2 or N95 mask.
  • If you have special dietary needs, make sure you have enough to last three days at home
  • Cash. Power cuts could affect online purchasing, EFTPOS and ATMs.
Power Outages

In the event of a power outage, you may receive a text notification from your regional electricity authority. However, if the length of a power outage feels too long, give your lines company a ring. You can also check the supplier’s website and social media to see if the outage was planned, or if there’s an update on when power will be restored. Your WiFi and cordless landline phone will likely be affected in a power cut, so it’s best to use your mobile phone for this. If a power outage is putting your health at risk, call 111 or go to a hospital.

  • Torches and battery-powered lanterns are safer to use in a power cut than candles.
  • A spare battery or mobile power pack for your phone, a camp stove or barbecue, and cooking fuel (such as gas) are also helpful items to have in the event of an extended power cut.
  • Power can surge when it’s restored, possibly damaging sensitive electronics: turn your TV, computer and stereo off at the wall or install surge protectors.
  • Keep your fridge and freezer shut if possible. The fridge will keep food cool for up to six hours, while a freezer will keep food frozen for up to 24 hours.
Drop, Cover, Hold

Drop, Cover, Hold is the best way to respond in the event of an earthquake. Learn more about how to Drop, Cover, Hold in different locations / situations.

Tsunamis

Search your home, work, or school to check if it’s in a tsunami evacuation zone, to prepare accordingly in the event of a tsunami.

Make a Quick Getaway

Having a ‘getaway bag’ will ensure you have everything you need should you ever have to leave your home after a natural disaster or other emergency. Your bag might contain:

  • Extra eyeglasses.
  • Hearing aids, batteries, and chargers.
  • Copies of medical prescriptions, doctor’s orders, and the style and serial numbers of the support devices you use.
  • Medical alert tags or bracelets or written descriptions of your disability and support needs, in case you are unable to describe your needs after an emergency.
  • Supplies for service animals such as guide dogs, such as food, medications, vaccination records, identification and harnesses.
  • Physician contact information, a list of your allergies, and health history.
  • A list of local nonprofit or community- based organisations that know you, and support people with needs similar to yours.
  • A list of family, friends, and support services with current contact details.
  • A laminated personal communication board / pen and paper, if help is needed to be understood.
  • If possible, extra medicine, oxygen, insulin, catheters, or other medical supplies you use regularly.
  • If you use a motorised wheelchair, have a lightweight, collapsible manual chair on hand as well, to use for emergencies.