Kiwification

photo credit: brndnprkns

This series of posts will deal with how to prepare for, and (hopefully) survive the various disasters that could befall you in New Zealand.

“We live at the edge of the world, so we live on the edge. Kiwis will always sacrifice money and security for adventure and challenge.”

- Lucy Lawless on the lives of New Zealanders.

Be under no illusions - New Zealand is a dangerous place.

We’re surrounded by volcanoes. We live our lives on top of a fault line. Our latest (minor) earthquake was 2 days ago.

We know this. Civil Defense Department knows this, and works to make the public aware of emergency preparation and survival.

The much-publicized website, “Get Thru“, contains resources and tips on preparing yourself for surviving a natural or man-made disaster.

After a disaster in New Zealand

• Everyone will be affected by a disaster, including the rescuers that we rely on. Immediately after an event, emergency services and civil defence staff will have to respond to the most critical demands. This means they may not get to everyone who needs help as quickly as needed.
• Be prepared to cope on your own for up to three days, or more.
• It could be several days before services are restored. Even then, access may be limited.
• Damaged infrastructure, such as roads, bridges and rail lines, will take longer to restore.
• This is when you will be most vulnerable. Get ready now to protect yourself, your loved ones and your community.

Your New Zealand Emergency Survival Kit

It’s a good idea to keep everything you’ll need in an emergency in one easily-accessible location in your home (You should also have one in your car). Below is a sample emergency kit. The FAA also has one. The bottom line? Be Prepared.

Emergency Items

• Torch with spare batteries
• Radio with spare batteries (check all batteries every 3 months)
• A change of clothes for all family members (wind and waterproof clothing, sun hats, and strong outdoor shoes)
• First aid kit and essential medicines
• Blankets or sleeping bags
• Pet supplies
• Toilet paper and large rubbish bags for your emergency toilet
• Face and dust masks

Food and water for at least 3 days

• Non-perishable food (canned or dried food)
• Bottled water (at least 3 litres per person, per day for drinking)
• Plan how to get water for washing and cooking (check your hot water cylinder, pond, toilet cistern if it is free of chemicals)
• A primus or gas barbeque to cook on
• A can opener
• Check and replace food and water every twelve months.

Supplies for babies and small children

You may have to keep your kids entertained or distracted for days. Be sure to pack:

• Food, formula and drink
• Change of clothing and nappies
• Toys or favourite activity

Assemble everything you need for your Emergency Survival Items and place it somewhere that is easy to get to in an emergency. Make sure everyone in your house knows where your Emergency Survival Items is kept.

If you prefer to keep some of your Emergency Survival Items in the house for everyday use, make sure you know where to find them quickly when an emergency occurs. Download a checklist here to make sure you are ready.