Western Australia (WA) is a vast state with a wonderful climate and lifestyle.
However, natural hazards such as bushfire, storm, cyclone and flood are an inevitable part of our WA landscape.
Natural hazards can be swift and unpredictable often impacting the community with devastating consequences.
Having an emergency kit is an important step to prepare and protect your household for unforeseen events.
An emergency kit is essential for short term survival providing vital items for you, your family or household.
It is a good idea to always keep your kit in a handy place known to everyone in the household.
Domestic pets need to be prepared for emergencies too. If you are a pet owner consider having a plan for your pets too and prepare a pet emergency kit.
For owners of livestock and other animals see Animal Welfare.
Your emergency kit includes items for your essential needs in the event of an emergency or natural disaster.
When you prepare your kit, include items you will require during several days of disruption to supplies such as power, water and gas.
Your kit should be stored in a waterproof storage container, kept in an accessible place and checked and resupplied every couple of months.
Supplies should be rotated and stocked up to ensure provisions are fresh and safe to use.
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The following items are listed as a guide for people to consider including in their kits.
Depending on the size of your household and individual needs items may vary.
Food and water
*Check and replace food and water every 12 months.
Other essential items
Medical and sanitation supplies
Supplies for babies and small infants
Light
Communications
Important documents in sealed bags
Clothing and footwear
Tools and supplies
Last minute items to include
Most emergency kits contain staple items although preparing for specific emergencies may require additional considerations.
If you are preparing a survival kit for bushfire consider including:
If you are preparing a survival kit for a flood, storm or cyclone consider including:
Your relocation kit is an addition to your emergency kit.
A relocation kit is useful when you decide or authorities advise you to relocate to safer accommodation if your life and property are at risk.
If you live in a highrisk bushfire area or a region prone to flooding or cyclones, having a well prepared relocation kit will help you and your family cope better during an emergency if you need to relocate.
Always keep your kit in an accessible place or consider storing it with family and friends away from the risk area.
What’s inside a relocation kit?
It is important to include items in your kit you may require when you are away from home for an unknown period of time.
Your kit should include provisions for your family’s essential needs during an emergency or natural disaster.
You should review the contents of your kit depending on the type of risk you and your family may face. For example, a pair of gumboots or water proof clothing would be valuable to include if you live in a flood zone.
A relocation kit could include:
If you have a domestic pet you should add:
Items to include at the last minute:
