Residents urged to review their cyclone preparedness

Townsville residents are being reminded to ready themselves for any storms or cyclones that could come their way over the coming months.

Minister for Communities Coralee O'Rourke said late January through to April is typically the time of year that tropical cyclones and other severe weather events impact communities across North Queensland.

“These are the months where the resilience of Queensland communities especially here in the north are usually tested to the full,” Mrs O’Rourke said.

“Experience shows us that the better prepared households are for these severe weather events, the faster our communities can get back on their feet, clean up, and recover.”

Mrs O'Rourke and Townsville Acting Mayor Les Walker today asked residents to review their emergency plans and replenish or refresh the stock items in their household disaster and evacuation kits.

“Take some time to make contact with your neighbours and share your plans with them –­ they may be best placed to call for help if you are in trouble after a natural disaster event,” Cr Walker said.

“Think about your pets and or livestock if you live on a farm – remember they may not be able to come with you if you need to evacuate. So think about where and how you can keep them safe and fed while you are away.

“You should also secure your property against damage and ensure your insurance is up to date and that you have sufficient cover to enable you to rebuild your home or replace your goods.

“We’ve got some great tips on council’s website and I encourage everybody to take some time to go over these.”

Member for Thuringowa Aaron Harper said being prepared ahead of storm season can make all the difference.

“As a former paramedic I worked alongside our emergency services during many storm seasons and saw first-hand the difference being prepared can make to a household during and after a cyclone or severe summer storm,” he said.

“That’s why I am urging locals across Townsville to take the time, tidy up your yard, stock up on the essential supplies and give some thought to ensure you have made plans for things like medications you may require ahead of a cyclone hitting.”

Mrs O'Rourke said working with individuals, communities and organisations to better prepare for storms and disasters was a priority of the Palaszczuk Government.

“While disasters affect people of all abilities, some Seniors and people with disability may experience greater vulnerability and require additional assistance or support particularly during and after a disaster,” she said.

“This is also true for people with limited financial support or family support networks – as we know disasters can be very frightening for even the strongest of us.

“The responsibility for care of some of the most vulnerable among us often falls to community-based organisations.

“We partnered with industry to develop a toolkit to help these organisations put plans and arrangements in place so they can continue providing services or support during and after a disaster.”

For more information visit the Queensland Government’s Get Ready website.

ENDS

Media Contact: Benjamin Mulcahy 0419 562 389