Queenslanders called to Get Ready for Tropical Cyclone Jasper

As the first cyclone of summer approaches, Queenslanders are being encouraged to follow three simple steps to get ready for the possible impacts of Tropical Cyclone Jasper:

• Understand your risk
• Prepare a household emergency plan 
• Pack an emergency kit

TC Jasper is predicted to cross the north Queensland coast next week, so the time is now to make the necessary preparations to stay safe.

Research shows less than half of all Queenslanders are adequately prepared for severe weather.

The Queensland Reconstruction Authority (QRA) disaster preparedness team Get Ready Queensland is calling on households to have supplies at home, an emergency plan in place, and insurance policies up to date.

Severe weather events like cyclones can have a massive impact on people.

The number one priority of course is to stay safe, but when a cyclone passes there will likely be ongoing challenges for those impacted.

Water and power supplies can be disrupted and shops may be closed, so having an emergency kit ready is an invaluable resource.

This can include long-life food, drinking water, a radio, torch, spare batteries and toiletries, items that will help maintain safety until water, power and local shops are back up and running.

As the state’s lead agency for disaster recovery and resilience, QRA is ready to support any disaster affected communities and local councils.

The Get Ready Queensland website, www.getready.qld.gov.au, has more information to help people prepare for the effects of severe weather.