Minister urges Queenslanders to be cyclone ready and safe

As the low in the Coral Sea intensifies to become the first cyclone of the season, now is the time for North Queenslanders to finalise their preparations and ensure their safety.

Energy and Water Supply Minister Mark McArdle said there are a range of simple steps that people can take to help them cope with the potential loss of electricity and water supplies.

“By now people will have already checked their emergency and medical kits, stocked up on batteries, taped up windows, made sure the car has a full tank of petrol and filled baths and containers with water,” Mr McArdle said.

“During the cyclone it is vital that people stay inside and away from windows and doors,” he said.

“People should switch-off and unplug electrical appliances, don’t use a landline phone during the storm and only use a mobile phone in an emergency.

“People should also have a battery powered radio for weather updates and emergency information.

“It is important people understand that when the cyclone has passed, the potential dangers have not.

“People should stay well clear of fallen powerlines and treat them as being live.

“Anyone experiencing tingles or shocks from an electrical appliance, or water tap, should call Ergon Energy immediately on 13 16 70 and call a licenced electrician to check their wiring.

“Parents should not let children play or swim in floodwaters because it can be a hazard, and fallen powerlines can be hidden by the water and debris.

“Taking a few simple and common sense precautions will not only save residents and emergency crews unnecessary heartache, but could also save lives.

For more detailed advice people should visit the Ergon Energy and the Queensland Government’s ‘Get Ready Queensland’ websites.

The Ergon Energy website:

https://www.ergon.com.au/outages--and--disruptions/storms-and-disasters/storm-and-cyclone-safety

Get Ready Queensland:

http://getready.qld.gov.au/be-prepared

[ENDS] 30 January 2014

Media Contact: Phil Hind 0437 334 183