As part of EmergencyRedi Week (14 to 20 September), Penrith City Council is encouraging residents to take simple steps now to prepare for emergencies.
To support residents, Council has developed a series of videos to help people understand local risks, make an emergency plan and know where to find reliable information when they need it.
Funded by the Australian and NSW Governments under the Disaster Recovery Funding Arrangements, the videos encourage residents to think about their own circumstances, household needs and support networks, and the practical steps they can take to be better prepared for emergencies.
Penrith Mayor Cr Todd Carney said taking a few simple steps before an emergency could help people recover quicker and reduce the impacts on themselves, their families and their property.
"Penrith has and will continue to face natural disasters and other emergencies, and EmergencyRedi Week is an important reminder for residents to understand local risks, make a plan and know where to find reliable information," Cr Carney said.
"There is an increased risk of extreme weather this coming summer, which makes it even more important for our community to be ready for emergencies.
"Being prepared doesn't have to be complicated. These videos highlight that everyone's situation is different, and encourage residents to take small, practical steps now that can make a big difference when the unexpected happens."
The 14 short videos cover a range of emergency readiness topics and will be featured on Council's social media channels throughout spring and summer.
The videos form part of Council's online Emergency Ready resources, which include local risk information, the Penrith Emergency Dashboard, preparedness checklists and links to relevant services.
Quotes attributed to Senator Tony Sheldon:
"The best time to think about an emergency is well before you're in the middle of it. Knowing who to call, where to get reliable information and what you need to take with you can make a huge difference when every minute counts."
"As someone who's visited communities in the aftermath of floods and bushfires, I know just how important the small things can be for families when disaster strikes."
Quotes attributed to the Federal Member for Macquarie Susan Templeman:
"In 2013 I lost my home to a bushfire that swept through Winmalee, and in the decade that I've been the Federal Member, I've supported my communities through floods and fires since then.
"All of that's given me a deeper understanding of the impact of disaster and the big difference smaller acts of preparation can make.
"Practical and straightforward advice like that delivered through this program is really key for people to prepare themselves and their families for something we hope will never happen.
"Whether it's making an emergency plan, knowing where to access trusted information or preparing an emergency kit, every small action can make a big difference. I encourage all residents to take advantage of these resources and start preparing today."
Quote attributed to NSW Minister for Recovery Janelle Saffin:
"Disasters can happen quickly and with little warning, which is why I encourage everyone to take the time now to understand the risks where they live, make a plan and know what they will do in an emergency.
"Being prepared is one of the most practical things we can all do to keep ourselves, our families and our communities safer, and resources like these help people take those important steps before disaster strikes."
More information can be found at penrith.city/emergency-ready.
