This article is a ready reference for Australian households and provides clear advice and practical actions to prepare for and deal with a range of emergencies. A checklist of items to make up an emergency kit is included.
Australia has a first class emergency management system but any emergency puts strain on that system. The more that we as individuals can do to prepare ourselves, the more effectively the emergency services can direct their resources.
Knowing what to do makes it easier to stay calm and confident in an emergency situation. Preparation is the key to best help communities and households prepare for the unexpected and to be resilient.
The Council of Australian Governments in February 2011 endorsed a ‘National Disaster Resilience Strategy’ approach. COAG noted:
