The best thing you can do to prepare for a disaster is start planning before it happens. Disasters can occur without warning, but knowing your risk and having a plan will put you in the best possible position when disaster does strike.

Know Your Risk

In Mareeba Shire, fires, storms and floods are a part of life. It is important to be aware, however, that other types of disasters, including heatwaves and earthquakes, could also impact us.

As Queenslanders, we experience more severe weather events than anyone else in Australia. To be prepared when disaster strikes, it is crucial to know your risk – what disasters might impact you, when they might occur, and how severe they could be.

  • Know your bushfire risk: Check your address with the QLD Fire Department Postcode Checker and assess the risk to your property
  • Know Your Flood Risk: View the Mareeba Shire Flood Hazard Mapping to assess the flood hazard in your area. Council’s interactive mapping can also be used and is accessible from the top ribbon of the website.
  • Research the history of disasters in your area – you can contact Council for assistance.
  • Think about what impact a disaster could have on you, your family and your property
  • The Australian Warning System ensures consistent messaging is delivered no matter where you are in the country. Make sure you’re familiar with the warning levels, and what they mean.
  • Take some time to familiarise yourself with the Bureau of Meteorology website. Ensure you know how to find information on current weather warnings, cyclone forecast maps, fire danger ratings, river levels, and general weather conditions in your area.

Make an Emergency Plan

Having an emergency plan in place can make a big difference when disaster strikes. Make a plan, and discuss it with members of your household to ensure everyone knows what to do in an emergency.

Pack an Emergency Kit

Queensland’s extreme weather can cause your home to lose power, water and gas. Telecommunication services may not work during a disaster. You also may not be able to get to a supermarket or pharmacy for supplies. Prepare an emergency kit and store it somewhere safe so you have the things you need when the weather turns bad.

  • Pack a Kit
  • Write down the details of your local radio stations and keep them in your emergency kit with a battery powered radio – radio stations will broadcast regular updates during a disaster
  • Think ahead – don’t wait until the last minute to prepare – build up your kit when you can. E.g. Buy one extra tin of beans per fortnight to add to your emergency kit.
  • In Mareeba Shire, many properties are at risk of prolonged isolation in the event of a disaster. Know your risk and pack a kit that is right for your circumstances – you may need to be prepared for 5-7 days isolation, or maybe several weeks.

Prepare Your Home

Keeping your property maintained throughout the year can help prepare you for severe weather.

For Businesses

Ensuring your business is prepared for severe weather can help to reduce financial damage and minimise disruption, getting you back to business as usual as soon as possible.

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