In an emergency
In an earthquake
If you are indoors, stay there - it is safer than going outside. Take cover under a doorframe or solid furniture.
If you are outside, move to a doorway or away from buildings, power lines and other potential hazards. If you are driving, stop the car and stay in it.
In a flood
Listen to the radio for information and instructions to evacuate.
Raise or remove valuable items if there is time and move fueland chemical containers to above the expected flood level.
Don't walk or drive through flowing flood waters and avoid contact with flood water that may be contaminated.
In a tsunami warning
People in low-lying coastal areas will be warned by continuous sounding of portable sirens.
Listen to your radio for evacuation instructions and if advised to evacuate take the most direct route to higher ground.
In coastal storms
Stay away from beaches and river mouths. Avoid using roads along exposed coastlines. Stay away from beaches and river mouths.
In a major chemical spill
Stay clear of the spill and stay inside - you are safer there from fumes.
Gather in a room with few windows and doors and put wet towels around door and window edges to seal them.
Listen to your radio for information and instructions.
In a snowstorm
Check snow build-up on the roof, particularly if the roof has is flat or has little slope, as the weight can cause structuraldamage.
Also check roof valleys as snow build-up can block the guttering and lead to water damage as it thaws.
Electricity may fail during heavy snowfall so be prepared to keep warm and prepare meals without it. Ensure you have a bit of extra food and fuel during winter in case you get stuck at home for a few days.
In a windstorm
Listen to the radio for information and forecasts. Before the storm, secure loose items that could be blown about.
Put tape across large windows and draw curtains. Once the storm starts, stay indoors.
If your roof starts to lift, partially open a window on the sheltered side of the house.
In a hailstorm
Take shelter in case dangerously large hailstones fall. After the hail has stopped check spoutings are clear so water damage won't occur when hail melts.
Last reviewed: 25 Jul 2008 2:12pm
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