Prepare for an emergency

How to prepare for an emergency

The Australian Red Cross has been supporting people during times of disaster for many years and understands that being prepared for bushfire, flood, cyclone or whatever disaster you may experience means that you will be more likely to recover quickly.

For more information on how to prepare yourself and your family for an emergency, visit the Australian Red Cross emergency preparation website.

Fire

For information relating to fire preparedness, please visit the Fire Ready section of Council’s website.

Floods and storms

Floods and storms are one of the most frequent and costly natural disasters.  Be prepared by following Victoria State Emergency Service advice.

For information about preparing for floods and storms visit:

StormSafe

FloodSafe

Bureau of Meteorology

You can also download the SES Local Flood Guide - Skipton

Heatwaves

A heatwave is a period of unusual and uncomfortable hot weather that could adversely affect human health, community infrastructure (such as power supply and public transport) and services.

Heatwaves can affect anybody and cause illnesses such as heat cramps, heat exhaustion, and heat stroke which can be fatal. The most important things to remember are:

  • Keep cool  
  • Drink plenty of water  
  • Stay out of the sun  
  • Look after yourself and others

For more information visit:

*       Better Health

For information about caring for pets and animals and preventing them from suffering heatstroke, visit the RSPCA website.

Emergency broadcasters

Stay tuned into an emergency broadcaster to hear emergency updates, community alerts and other important messages.

The following radio stations will provide up to date information about the emergency:

  • 3CS (1134 AM)
  • 3YB (882 AM)
  • 3HA (981 AM)
  • Mixx FM (106.3 FM, 88.9 FM)
  • ABC Radio (594 AM, 1602 AM, 774 AM, 94.1 FM, 107.9FM)
  • Coast FM (95.3)
  • 3BA (102.3)
  • Power (103.1)

SKY NEWS Television, WIN TV and Prime TV will also provide frequent information

Follow CFA South West, SES Barwon South West, Vic Emergency and Corangamite Shire on Facebook and @CFA, @VicSES Warnings, @VicEmergency and @Corangamite Shire on Twitter for up to date information on incidents.

VicEmergency Website and App

The VicEmergency website provides the Victorian community with one, centralised location for emergency warnings and information. The site includes all warnings for fires, hazardous material incidents, storms, floods, earthquakes, tsunamis and traffic hazards. Download the app or save the Website as a favourite with your set watch zones to be notified of events in your area.

Emergency Relief Centres

There are a number of buildings which may be accessed in an emergency as emergency relief centres.  One or more of these buildings may be used as:

  • an evacuation centre
  • emergency accommodation; or
  • emergency relief

If it is deemed necessary to establish an emergency relief centre, you will be directed to the most appropriate site.