Central Coast Council is encouraging residents to Get Ready for bushfire and storm events, by using the month of September to be more prepared and attend a community preparedness event.
Council Director Community and Recreation Services Melanie Smith said bushfires and severe storms were more common this time of year and could impact any Coast community.
“The community preparedness events are designed to empower the community to understand their own risks, be well prepared and connect with neighbours to help build resilience,” she said.
“History has shown that being prepared, aware and connected makes our community stronger and able to recover well after a natural disaster.
“The unseasonably hot weather in the last week of Winter and first week of Spring has shown us that it is important not to wait until it’s too late, and start preparing now.”
Residents are encouraged to download the Red Cross Get Prepared app during Red Cross Emergency Redi Week (September 16-22), which guides users to make important decisions ahead of time by completing a personal emergency RediPlan.
NSW RFS will conduct Get Ready weekend events on September 21-22 and some through to October, with a number of Central Coast brigades involved.
Find your nearest event by searching your postcode at www.rfs.nsw.gov.au
Council will conduct a Get Ready information session with Ourimbah RFS from 10.30am-12.30pm on September 28, giving practical tips in preparing for bush fire season and providing an opportunity to discuss bush fire survival plans with RFS members.
Check Council’s website for more information and online resources and guides.
Council Administrator Rik Hart said severe weather and other emergency events would continue to be a part of life on the Central Coast and could occur at any moment.
“We are committed to keeping the community safe and are partnering with emergency services and key community organisations to raise awareness about emergency preparedness to assist members of the community,” he said.
“Regardless of whether you have recently moved to the Central Coast or have been a resident for decades – now is the time to understand your risks and create an up-to-date home emergency plan.”
For information and resources on preparing for storms, bushfire, heatwaves and other emergency events, search ‘plan and prepare’ at centralcoast.nsw.gov.au