Simple precautions could help you and your family in times of a disaster. Prepare a household disaster plan and evacuation plan. Keep a list of emergency numbers handy and make sure important documents (passports and identification) as well as cash are safe in waterproof containers.

The following checklist can also help ensure you and your family remain safe during a storm or disaster.

Emergency kit checklist

• Essential supplies - tinned and other non perishable food, candles, waterproof matches, a fuel or gas lamp, torches and spare batteries, fresh drinking water. Remember, power could be cut for several days so you need to be prepared.
• Communications - a battery-powered, portable radio with spare batteries. This can often be the only means of outside communication. It is essential for keeping updated about cyclone warnings and other essential information such as relief efforts. A mobile phone can be useful if mobile phone towers have not been damaged. (However, note that the mobile phone networks may be congested.) Use the phone only in emergencies to prolong battery life.
• Other essentials - filled water containers, a spare tin opener and self-contained cooking facilities. The barbeque can be invaluable. Don't forget firewood, coals and firelighters, and gas.
• Clothing - essential spare clothes. Warm, dry clothing will make a cyclone situation more comfortable.
• First Aid knowledge - a complete first aid kit is essential. Knowing how to use it can save lives.
• Valuable items - masking tape and plastic garbage bags can prove useful in many situations.
• A tin of paint and a brush - If there-s a chance that your property could become isolated painting your property name on the roof will assist emergency services. This is particularly important in remote areas.

Loss of power checklist

If a storm or disaster interrupts your power supply, these tips can help you stay safe.

• Turn off and unplug sensitive electrical appliances like your television, computer and DVD at the power point.
• Check from your window to see if only your home is affected or if it's more widespread.
• If you've seen or heard something that could help identify the problem, call us on the NCD numbers listed here or our centre numbers on this listing.
• Listen to your radio for updates.
• For a life-threatening emergency, call Triple One (111).

Life support checklist

In case of a power interruption, you should have a plan to minimise the impact on your health. Ask yourself the following questions:

• Have you made a note of the nearest hospital, its address and contact details?
• Do you know if your hospital can supply power via back-up generators during power interruptions?
• Do you have a transport plan in place to enable you to get to the hospital?
• Do you have important contact numbers on hand for:
  - Doctor
  - Local hospital
  - Ambulance
  - Taxi
  - PNG Power dedicated emergency numbers
  - Personal carer
  - Health care professional?
• Have you put together an Emergency Kit?
• Is your supply of medications, prescription drugs and any special health needs fully stocked?
• Have you protected your electronic equipment by plugging computers and other sensitive equipment into surge suppressors or considered an uninterruptible power supply (UPS) for temporary back-up power?
• Does your phone still work when electrical supply is disrupted? Cordless phones will not operate without electrical supply. Do you have an alternative phone service available?