Understand the ‘whys’ of cyclone prep

You do get a good understand of the ‘whys’ of cyclone preparation in the aftermath of a Cyclone.  Cyclone Debbie was not my first experience. Debbie also affected via the after storms all the way down the east coast of Australia and even as far as New Zealand.

Why you need a cyclone or natural disaster kit?  Your Kit will be your go-to emergency supplies, and items you will need to assist you.  Definitely prepare prior to the season.  A suggested guideline is below, however you may have a few other things to add.

Why do you fill up the bath tub with water? After a cyclone, if you are without power for several days, you will eventually be without water, as pumps are required to get the water to you. The water in your tub, can be used for flushing your toilet only with a number 2, hand washing and bathing. If you have sinks that will hold water, fill a couple too, as you will need to wash dishes and hands, or have a bowl or bucket beside your sink. Also have baby, kitchen and floor wipes, as without water it makes it easier to clean up.

Why do you get sleep when you can? Most people rarely sleep through a cyclone, as water will be coming in somewhere. What you prayer for, is as little damage as possible. Most new buildings in Nth Qld are to Cat 5 Cyclone standard, so roofs are generally ok, but leaking can still occur. Windows although well rated can also be the source of leaking water. Have a lot of towels and buckets.  The sooner you remove excess water the better so that you won’t get mildew and mould.  Also have extra dryrid for areas effected.

Why do you move plants? If you wish to save any outdoor plants, bring them indoors. Most trees will loose their leaves, and some older trees, if the soil is soaked will be uprooted. Know that the plants will grow back. Although devastating to watch, within two weeks you will see greenery again.

Why do you need a generator?  If your power lines are brought down in a cyclone, you can be without power until it is safe to reconnect.  This can vary from a couple of days to weeks.  With a generator you can keep your fridge/freezer cold, lights on and fans when needed.  Ensure you have enough fuel.  Ensure you never run you generator in a confined space, as the fume can lead to death.

Why do you fill your car with fuel?  If the power goes out, fuel can not be pumped, so fill up before the cyclone.

Why be gentle with yourself, pets and others?  It is not just dealing with the cyclone, it is dealing with the aftermath.  Often you will be tired from lack of sleep, and you need to be careful in the cleanup.  Remember your pets.   It will put all relationships under pressure, and everyone deals with overcoming a natural disaster or trauma differently.  Breathe and find the blessing in the aftermath.  I personally, have experienced freak incidents in the aftermath.  This last one took a month of recovery.  Don’t recommend it, but if you find yourself there, be gentle with yourself, and know everyone will have their own way of coping.

Why have your insurance details and number ready and assessable prior to the event?  Prior to the event check your coverage.  If you need to make a claim, the sooner you connect with your insurer the sooner you will be able to get back to a new normal.

Why you need a battery operated radio?  The radio can be a good source of letting you know how the cyclone is tracking.  If you loose power you will loose communications.   This includes NBN broadband, unless they change it, runs out of battery backup within a couple of hours.  Your mobile phones tablets or computer will need power, so you may not be able to let family know how you are.  As soon as you have power you might like to text them and let them know you are ok.

If you need assistance in the recovery phase, get it.  The government will have emergency assistance, the hospitals will have extra staff, and if you need assistance ask.