Aucklanders urged to get emergency ready this daylight saving weekend

Emergencies don't RSVP; they show up uninvited. Investing a little time in emergency preparedness now can make a big difference in keeping you safer and less stressed when an emergency happens.

So this spring, Auckland Council and its Auckland Emergency Management department have launched a compelling new public awareness campaign encouraging Aucklanders to use daylight saving weekend to get emergency ready.

Adam Maggs, General Manager of Auckland Emergency Management, says being prepared doesn't have to be complicated but it does make all the difference.

"Our new public awareness campaign urges Aucklanders to use the daylight saving weekend (27 and 28 September) as a cue to make or update their emergency plans, check their supplies, and know their local hazards. "Emergencies don't send calendar invitations, they just show up, sometimes in the middle of the night. Having a plan and essential emergency supplies ready means you and your whānau can stay safer and connected, no matter what comes your way," he says.

"Talk with your family about what you will do if you can't get home, or need to leave your home in a hurry."

The Get Ready Emergency Preparedness campaign started on 15 September and runs until 29 September across billboards, digital banners, radio, social media and online.

The essentials

Start with the basics: does your household have a plan for how you'll stay in touch, where you'll meet if separated, and what to do if the power, water, or internet suddenly disappear? If you do, great! Dust it off and update if needed.

Need help getting started? Head to Auckland Emergency Management's website to find simple tools and checklists to build your household emergency plan.

Next, check your emergency supplies

Imagine hosting an unexpected three-day indoor camping trip; do you have what you need to stay safe and comfortable at home if you can't go out? Think water containers, non-perishable food, torches, batteries, first aid supplies, pet food, toilet paper, hand sanitiser, and even a few games to keep the kids entertained if Netflix goes dark.

"Your household is already full of emergency items disguised as everyday things. You probably even have most of the things you need already. You don't have to have them all in one place, as long as you know where they are and can find them in a hurry or in the dark," says Mr Maggs.

Don't forget the small stuff that makes a big difference

It's helpful to be prepared for the power going out. A battery powered torch will be extremely useful. Also, a battery powered radio (or even your car radio) is great to have ready so you can keep up to date with official information during an emergency.

While you're at it, do a quick sweep around your home and see what you can do to reduce the effects of an emergency on you and your property. For example, keep your gutters and drains clear and overhanging branches trimmed.

"While we can't control the storms, earthquakes or tsunami, we can control how ready we are to face them. The more you do now, the more prepared you will be in an emergency. Use this daylight saving weekend to talk emergency planning with your family," Mr Maggs says.