What to Do in an Emergency: allcare’s Guide for Older Australians
Ensuring the safety and well-being of allcare’s clients is of paramount importance.
Emergencies can happen at any time, and being prepared is especially important for older Australians. At allcare, we understand the unique needs of our clients and are here to support you through every step of emergency preparation. This simple guide will help you stay safe and confident in any situation.
How to Prepare for an Emergency
Taking small steps now can make a big difference in an emergency.
Make a Plan
Discuss your emergency plan with family, friends, or neighbours.
Agree on a plan and how to stay in touch during an emergency.
Choose a Safe Place
Decide on a safe destination in case you need to evacuate.
Let your family and friends know where you’ll go and the route you’ll take to get there.
Prepare an Emergency Kit
Emergency agencies recommend having an emergency kit ready with essential items to help you during and after a disaster.
Include essentials like water, non-perishable food, medications, a torch, batteries, and a first-aid kit.
Protect Sentimental Items
Identify belongings that are irreplaceable and would cause distress if lost.
Take steps to safeguard these items.
Safeguard Important Documents
Store critical documents, such as passports, wills, and insurance papers, in a secure location outside your home.
Create a map of your house to identify where sentimental or irreplaceable items, like photos, are stored.
Plan for Pets/ Livestock
Think about what your animals would need for a week, including food, medication, and transport.
Have a plan in place for someone to help care for or evacuate your animals if you can’t make it home.
Maintain Your Home
Reduce risks by keeping your home in good condition. Call allcare on 1300 377 074 if you need help with tasks like cleaning gutters or clearing your yard.
Register for Support
If you may need assistance during an emergency, register with allcare by calling 1300 377 074.
allcare’s register helps share important information with Police, SES, and CFA if required.
Your Emergency Kit Checklist
Make sure your emergency kit includes:
Medications: Include your Webster pack and prescriptions.
Personal Items: Glasses, hearing aids, mobility aids, and spare batteries.
Important Documents: Passports, insurance papers, and contact details for your GP, pharmacy, and loved ones.
Pet Supplies: Food, medication, and a way to identify and transport them.
What to do If You Need to Evacuate
Evacuating early is the safest choice in emergencies.
Leave Early
Avoid waiting until the last minute to evacuate. Early action ensures your safety and reduces stress.
Dress for Safety
Wear sturdy shoes and comfortable clothing suitable for travel and potential hazards.
Take Your Emergency Kit
Pack essentials, including your emergency kit, mobile phone, and charger.
Secure Your Home
Turn off gas, water, and electricity if it’s safe to do so. Lock all doors and windows before leaving.
Bring Essentials
Don’t forget vital items like glasses, hearing aids, mobility aids, or any medications you may need.
Inform Others
Notify allcare, your family, and friends about your evacuation plans, route, and destination.
Stay Informed
Stay updated on emergency warnings and advice by tuning into your local ABC Radio station:
ABC News on Radio: 90.9FM (Illawarra, Shoalhaven, Southern Highlands, Wollondilly) or 103.5FM (Batemans Bay/Moruya)
You can also visit the ABC Emergency website at www.abc.net.au/emergency or follow your local ABC on Facebook for live updates.
What to do During an Emergency
Stay calm and follow these steps to keep yourself safe:
In Life-Threatening Situations
Call Triple Zero (000) immediately.
For Help During Floods, Storms, or Tsunamis
Contact the NSW SES on 132 500.
Stay Inside
Lock doors and windows and move to a central room without windows.
Keep your emergency kit close and let someone know you’re safe.
Follow Official Advice
Stay tuned to emergency updates via reliable sources like ABC Radio.
How allcare Can Help
At allcare, we’re committed to supporting older Australians in staying safe and prepared. If you need help with your emergency plan, home maintenance, or assistance during an emergency, call us on 1300 377 074.
For more details, read allcare’s Disaster and Emergency Management Plan.