If you need to evacuate

Is your area likely to be affected by flooding, storm surge, or tsunami? Reseach local natural hazards for your area.

What support is available to you and your household in case of emergency? Ask your local council or SES for details about emergency evacuation zones and evacuation routes.

Based on the predicted wind speeds and storm surge heights, your local authority might decide to evacuate residents. Tune into your local ABC radio station to learn which locations local authorities have nominated as safe places to shelter - called evacuation centres - usually the town hall, school, or sporting complex. You will also need to learn which evacuation routes are recommended as safe.

During a flood, you might simply need to move to higher ground, so discuss in advance who might accommodate you, and list that address on your Household Emergency Plan. Take only essential items with you, as detailed in your Emergency Kit and Evacuation Kit.

If you are told to evacuate, wear warm, protective clothing and shoes. Lock doors and windows, turn off power, gas, and water and remember to take your Emergency Kit and Evacuation Kit.

If you are advised to evacuate inland, take your pets and leave early to avoid traffic congestion, flooding, and strong winds. If you evacuate to an emergency centre take sleeping bags and blankets and books or games for children. Leave pets protected by safe shelter and with plenty of food and water.

To enable fast action in an emergency, draw a map of your property and clearly mark the location of your electrical switchboard, natural gas connection or tanks, water supply, and solar inverter, and keep this in your Household Emergency Kit. Make sure that everyone in your household knows the location and how to shut off utilities.