Get ready, get thru

From City Scene, published on 11 October, 2009.

This week (11-17 October) is Disaster Awareness Week, a council-supported national initiative with the theme "Get Ready Get Thru".

Councillor John Lister, the council's Civil Defence Emergency Management representative, says that in light of the recent tragic earthquake and resulting tsunami in the Pacific, it is a timely reminder to be prepared.

"Auckland has been fortunate enough to have remained relatively untouched by major disasters. However, this is no reason to be complacent - our city is at constant risk, both from natural hazards such as seismic activity and cyclones, and also situations like extreme weather events and pandemics."

Personal responsibility plays a huge part. In an emergency, you may have to cope on your own for three days or more without utilities and services. For basic preparations you can make in case trouble arises, visit the Get Ready, Get Thru website or phone Auckland City Council for a "Be Prepared" information pack.

"We don't need to live in fear, but by taking a few simple steps - such as making an emergency kit, and creating disaster plans with our families - we can make sure that we're in the best possible position to deal with any issues that may come up," says Mr Lister.