Living on a lifestyle block comes with its share of rewards—and responsibilities. In an emergency, you may need to act quickly to protect your home, family, animals, and property. The key to staying safe is preparation. Here are the top priorities to ensure you’re emergency-ready, based on the Lifestyle Block Emergency Preparedness Handbook.
1. Have an Emergency Plan
An emergency can happen at any time, and you might not be home when it does. A well-thought-out plan ensures everyone knows what to do. Your plan should include:
- A designated meeting place if you cannot return home
- Contacts for family, neighbors, and emergency services
- Evacuation routes and alternative access points to your property
- Arrangements for the care of animals if you can’t get home
2. Prepare for Shelter-in-Place
Sometimes, it’s safer to stay put rather than evacuate. Make sure you have enough supplies for several days, including:
- Food and water (at least three days’ worth per person and animal)
- First aid kit and necessary medications
- Torch, radio, and spare batteries
- A gas BBQ or camping cooker for food preparation
- Sanitation supplies (toilet paper, rubbish bags, emergency toilet options)
3. Know When and How to Evacuate
If authorities issue an evacuation order, leave immediately. Prepare a getaway kit with:
- Important documents (ID, insurance, pet records)
- Cash and personal identification
- Emergency clothing, food, and water
- First aid supplies and prescription medications
- Transport crates, halters, and leads for animals
- Key contacts and emergency shelter locations
4. Caring for Your Animals
Your animals rely on you in an emergency. Ensure you have:
- Sufficient food and water stored in a safe location
- Transport and containment options (cages, leads, floats)
- Emergency medical supplies for pets and livestock
- Up-to-date identification and microchips for your animals
- Plans for where to move stock in case of fire or flooding
5. Power, Water & Communication Backups
Disruptions to utilities are common in emergencies. Be prepared by:
- Having a backup generator or alternative power source
- Storing extra fuel and ensuring safe access to water
- Keeping a battery-powered or solar radio for updates
- Arranging alternative communication methods with neighbors
6. Get to Know Your Neighbors
Community support is essential during an emergency. Work with your neighbors to:
- Share emergency plans and contacts
- Identify vulnerable community members who may need help
- Set up a phone tree or group chat for quick updates
- Plan for shared resources like generators or livestock transport
7. Regularly Review and Practise Your Plan
Emergency readiness isn’t a one-time effort. Review your plan annually and after any major event. Practice evacuation drills and ensure your supplies are up to date.
Emergencies are unpredictable, but being prepared can make all the difference. Take the time to put these steps in place now so you and your whānau can stay safe when it matters most.
For more information and resources, visit Auckland Emergency Management or check out the full Lifestyle Block Emergency Preparedness Handbook.
