Are you and your household prepared for severe weather or other emergency events?
That's the question Sunshine Coast Council, in partnership with emergency services agencies, are urging residents to consider this Get Ready Queensland Week (October 13 – 19).
Local Disaster Management Group Chair and Sunshine Coast Council Mayor Mark Jamieson said the recent Sunshine Coast fires showed just how quickly and unexpectedly disaster could strike.
"When it comes to disasters, there's no room for complacency," Mayor Jamieson said.
"We want the community to ensure they have a 'WHAT-IF' plan, which involves considering potential disaster risks in your local area, preparing your household and checking on your neighbours.
"It's also important to have an emergency kit containing essential items that will equip your household should severe weather or other events cause major disruptions to essential services.
"We all have a role to play and being prepared is everyone's responsibility.
"Council has extensive disaster management plans in place, but we know that communities that are well prepared and aware before a disaster occurs, are more resilient and able to recover faster.
"When it comes to disasters, it's not a matter of 'if' but 'when' - and there's no better time than now to get ready."
Local Disaster Coordinator Tom Jamieson said the Sunshine Coast Disaster Management Group – which was activated during the recent fires – had an annual real-time training exercise to test these plans and processes.
"This essential activity provides our personnel with a refresher ahead of fire and storm seasons to improve their skills in responding to disasters," Mr Jamieson said.
"Throughout the year, council's disaster management team works with residents and businesses to help them prepare and spread the 'Get Ready' message."
