Your Emergency Plan let’s you and your household plan ahead so you know exactly what to do, where to go and how to keep in touch with each other during an emergency.

One of the easiest and most important things you can do to prepare for an emergency is to prepare an emergency kit. Use a checklist to gather items you’ll need to stay safe and informed.

Planning for an evacuation now can save you time and stress in the event of an emergency. Consider what you'd need to take with you, and prepare an evacuation kit for your household.

Make sure your home insurance is adequate and covers all hazards in your area.

Download the ACT Government's "Your Guide to Preparing for an Emergency" and "Your Emergency Grab and Go Booklet"

Learn about your local government’s emergency preparedness and review evacuation zones and routes.

Discuss possible scenarios and responses with family.

Stay informed and know how to tune into warnings and alerts.

Be aware of appliances and other devices that may not work without power or gas such as garage doors, heating/cooling, telephone or kitchen appliances.

Keep your pantry stocked with non-perishable food items that don’t require cooking.

Learn how to turn off all mains including power, water, gas and solar power.

Install smoke alarms and test them regularly.

If you are elderly or have a disability, it is especially important that you build a personal support group of family, friends and caregivers. Discuss your needs and make sure you understand each other’s expectations in the event of an emergency.

Share your emergency plan and emergency kit, and plan how to communicate with your support group.

Keep a seven-day supply of any essential medications.

Wear a medical alert ID to identify disability or health issue.

If you have a disability, keep a list of your specific needs, limitations, capabilities and medications.

Plan ahead if anyone in your household needs life-support equipment and find a back-up generator.

Consider asking your disability service provider for assistance and information on your emergency plan.

Make sure members of your support network understand how to operate any equipment needed by people with disability or chronic health conditions.

If you have an elderly household member, consider keep an extra pair of glasses and spare medication in your emergency kit.

If a member of your household uses a walking aid or mobility aid, consider placing spares in different rooms throughout your home; keeping them assessable at all times.

If you or a member of your household uses mobility equipment, medical equipment or similar, consider storing back-up equipment at your neighbour’s home, school or your workplace.

If you use an electric wheelchair or mobility aid, keep a manual wheelchair for back-up if possible.

Include essential baby items in your emergency kit including nappies, bottles and extra baby clothes.

Involve your children when creating your emergency plan.

Teach your children about extreme weather and natural disasters.

Learn about how your children might respond to an emergency.

Include items for your pets in your emergency and evacuation kits.

Keep a list of important numbers for your pet in your Emergency Plan.

If you must leave your pet behind, lock them indoors with food and water.

Ensure your pet's vaccinations and licenses are up to date.

Get to know your neighbours.

Understand your community risk - research your local hazards.

Talk to people new to your area about local hazards and the ‘ACT First' and ESA website

Know what resources are available to you and your community and what your personal responsibilities are.

Unite as a community to overcome the extreme weather events and other hazards.

Whether you’re a long-term resident in your area or newly arrived, volunteering is a great way to meet new people, while giving to the community.