Be ready for anything this summer

With many of us about to head off for a well-deserved break, Hawke’s Bay Civil Defence Emergency Management Group (HBCDEM) are reminding everyone in the region to be prepared for anything this summer.

While COVID-19 has been front of mind for many people, Group Controller Ian Macdonald says it’s important not to lose sight of the other emergencies that can happen in Aotearoa.

“Whether you’re staying at home enjoying the Hawke’s Bay sunshine or heading away on holiday, it’s important to make sure you’re prepared for anything this summer,” Ian Macdonald said.

“Now’s a great time to sit down and develop a household emergency plan. Learn about the hazards in your area, figure out where you’ll meet if you can’t get home, and check what supplies you will need.

“If you’re planning a summer road-trip, make sure to keep up to date with weather and roading information. Remember to include an emergency grab bag in your vehicle – and pack face coverings in your grab bag too,” Ian Macdonald said.

HBCDEM also urge anyone living in our coastal communities or heading to the beach this summer, to be “tsunami ready". For a local source tsunami, which is generated close to the New Zealand coast and could arrive in minutes, there won’t be time for an official warning. It is important to recognise the natural warning signs and act quickly – Long or Strong, Get Gone.

“If you are at a property in any of our tsunami evacuation zones and feel an earthquake that is long or strong, you need to evacuate immediately. So, please make sure you know your evacuation zone, just in case you and your whānau need to evacuate in a hurry.

“With new research indicating we have a 1 in 4 chance of a major Hikurangi Subduction Zone earthquake in the next 50 years, being ‘tsunami-ready’ is more important than ever,” Ian Macdonald said.

Finally, when working on your household emergency plan, remember to get ready for what you need to do if you get COVID-19.

“Everyone, whether you are vaccinated or unvaccinated, should prepare for what you need to do if you get COVID-19. If you test positive for COVID-19, you and everyone you live with will need to isolate to help stop the spread of the virus. There are simple steps we can take to protect ourselves and others.

“There is never a better time than now to prepare and to update your plan to keep your whānau safe,” Ian Macdonald said.

22 December 2021

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