As I read the media coverage of the recent cyclone in Queensland, I was struck by the level of community spirit and resilience.

Although whole towns were devastated, over and over again, people who had lost everything were expressing relief that no one had lost their life. By being prepared, having adequate warnings in place and enacting emergency plans (including relief stations and shelters), these communities had, quite literally, weathered a huge storm. There is a lesson there for us all on the importance of knowing what we are facing and having a plan for dealing with it.

In 2009 there were bushfires in South Gippsland Shire. In recent weeks there has been severe flooding in Cardinia Shire, but it’s been good luck, that we haven’t had to deal with similar situations recently in Bass Coast. Severe weather conditions are the most likely cause of an emergency situation in Bass Coast and can be minimised, but not prevented. Parts of our Shire experienced heavy rain, wind and hail last week which is a timely reminder about being prepared for an emergency – whatever it is. The Australian Red Cross has put together the emergency REDiPlan booklet which has four key steps to preparing your household for an emergency situation. 

The first tip from the Red Cross is to be informed. Council’s Municipal Emergency Planning Committee has investigated the most likely type of emergencies and the impact they would have. The most likely is a traffic crash involving more than one vehicle, next is extreme weather events like wind, hail, rain and heatwave.

The second tip from the Red Cross is to make a plan. A plan helps you and your family to be more resilient and can reduce disruption to your lives. The third tip is to prepare an emergency kit with items you may need if you have to evacuate your home or if you have to stay in your home when essential services have been cut. We also recommend you have a smaller kit to keep in your car.

The fourth tip is to know your neighbours. People who know each other in their community are more likely to turn to each other for help and cope better with crises and emergencies.

We have REDiPlan booklets available at Council offices and they are well worth taking home and going through with your family. By taking time to think about and plan for emergencies, you can help yourself to be prepared, and cope better if an emergency occurs.

Cr Veronica Dowman, Mayor
Bass Coast Shire Council