Who is responsible for planning and responding in an emergency?  

Managing emergencies is a responsibility shared by individual residents, agencies and the community.  

Planning for an emergency 

You can play a vital part by being aware of the risks in your area and places you are travelling. Having a plan that covers multiple emergencies helps you to be proactive in protecting yourself and your family in an emergency situation.   

Keep informed by using the following resources:  

Vic Emergency app - Being prepared and understanding warnings – information includes fire, flood, storm, extreme heat, water safety, and preparing for telecommunications and power outages.   

SES website- Preparing for floods and learning how to sandbag  

Country Fire Authority – Plan and prepare for firesand CFA Fire Ready Kit   To source translated material for someone who does not read English call 131450.    

Department of Health – Heat health warnings  

The ABC Emergency website also provides information on general recovery, flood, bushfire, storm or cyclone and heatwaves. 

Stay up to date  

Vic Emergency app – Incidents and warnings  

BOM – Warnings current  

Important emergency services messages are often played on your local ABC radio.

After the event  

Once you’ve received the all-clear to return home from your local council or SES, the Recovery Basics: looking after yourself during and after disasters booklet from the Red Cross has information on the physical, emotional and mental toll of disasters. 

Vic Emergency app – Relief and recovery  Including information specific to current and latest events, practical safety advice to assist with returning home, and mental health and other support services.  This site includes translated factsheets and How to get help in natural disasters in Auslan.   

Flood and storm information and support can be found on the Australian Department of Health and Aged Care website and natural disaster support on the Services Australia website.