Cyclone season can bring severe winds, heavy rain, and flooding, threatening lives and property. Being prepared can save lives, reduce damage, and give peace of mind. Here's your complete guide to cyclone preparedness.
1. Secure Your Finances (Before Cyclone Season)
Insurance Review:Â Check that your home and contents sums insured are adequate to cover the full cost of rebuilding and replacing your belongings. Underinsurance is a common problem that can leave you significantly out of pocket after cyclone damage.
Emergency Cash:Â Keep cash on hand in case ATMs are inaccessible.
2. Prepare an Emergency Kit (Before Cyclone Season)
A well-stocked kit can keep you safe:
Non-perishable food and drinking water (enough for 3-7 days)
Battery-operated radio
Flashlights and extra batteries
First aid supplies
Portable phone chargers
Important documents in waterproof bags
Personal hygiene items
3. Create a Family Emergency Plan (Before Cyclone Season)
Safe Areas:Â Identify windowless rooms for shelter.
Communication Plan:Â Decide how family members will stay in touch.
Evacuation Routes:Â Know local shelters and the quickest way to reach them.
Pet Safety:Â Bring pets inside early and prepare a pet emergency kit. Check for hazards before letting them outside after the storm.
4. Prepare Your Property Before a Cyclone
Secure Loose Items:Â Anchor outdoor furniture, bins, trampolines, and anything that could become airborne.
Inspect Your Roof:Â Arrange for a professional roof inspection to identify and repair any damage, ensuring all roofing materials are properly secured.
Trim Overhanging Trees:Â Prevent branches from falling on your home.
Clear Drains & Gutters:Â Reduce flooding risks by keeping water flowing freely.
5. Stay Informed About Cyclones
Monitor Weather Updates:Â Use reliable sources like the Bureau of Meteorology (BOM) or trusted weather apps.
Understand Cyclone Warning Levels:Â Learn the difference between advisory, watch, and alert so you know when to take action.
6. Vehicle Safety Tips (When Cyclone Approaches)
Fill your fuel tank before the storm.
Park away from trees and unsecured structures or use a garage.
Move vehicles to higher ground if you live in a flood-prone area.
7. Community Preparedness
8. During a Cyclone
Stay indoors and away from windows.
Avoid using electrical appliances.
Follow official advice on radio, apps, or government alerts. Evacuate if instructed.
9. After the Cyclone
Watch out for hazards like fallen power lines or weakened structures.
Report emergencies to authorities.
Use bottled or boiled water until local supplies are safe.
Pro Tip:Â Review your cyclone preparedness plan and emergency kit each year to stay ready and protect your home, family, and property.
Key improvements:
Insurance and emergency kit preparation now come first (before cyclone season)
Property preparation and weather monitoring come next (as season approaches)
Vehicle safety positioned when a cyclone is imminent
Clear progression from preparation → monitoring → during → after
